The Packable Life

18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

12 different travel essentials laid out across a table including a speaker, adapter, water bottle, phone case, and more

Whether you’re headed out for a quick business trip, a monthslong world tour, or a laid-back weekend at the beach, our list of 2024’s best travel essentials has you covered.

Sure, some necessities are obvious — toiletries, medications, snacks, phones — we know you’ll pack those. We’re here to cover the game-changing items you may not have thought of that’ll help elevate your packing list and make life easier on the road.

Whether it’s a minimalist wallet, a compact Bluetooth speaker, a lightweight laptop case, or something else, we bet you’ll find a piece of gear here that will add value to your travel bag. We know this because we’ve traveled extensively with every item on this list and stand behind each recommendation.

Packing is a juggling act, so let’s dive into the must-have gear we’d never travel without.

Travel Essentials for Men & Women

  • Personal Item Bag: Our Top Picks
  • Travel Organizers: Our Top Picks
  • Minimalist Wallet/Purse: Slimfold & Travelambo
  • Bluetooth Headphones: Apple AirPods Pro
  • Titanium Water Bottle: Our Top Picks
  • Laptop Case/Sleeve: tomtoc 360º
  • Phone Case: OtterBox
  • Lightweight Power Bank: Nitecore NB10000 Gen II
  • Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3
  • Travel Adapter: Anker
  • Cellphone Kickstand/Tripod: The Pocket Tripod
  • Ultralight Camera Clip: Peak Design
  • High-Quality Travel Journal: Moleskine
  • The Write Everywhere Pen: Space Pen
  • Noise-Blocking Earplugs: Howard Leight by Honeywell
  • Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince & Wool&
  • Versatile Travel Pants: Slim Dungarees & Vuori Ripstop
  • Do-It-All Travel Shoes: Our Top Picks
  • Tips for a Perfect Packing List
  • Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for Men & Women

Essential Travel Gear & Accessories

Personal item bag our top picks of 2024.

Black personal item backpack on a wooden table

Here’s our top essential: A personal item bag that’ll hold and protect the stuff you need close at hand, every day and everywhere. We’re talking about travel documents, snacks, personal care items, electronics, changes of clothes, and assorted accessories.

Browse through our favorite personal item bags for a wide variety of lightweight, weather-resistant, and feature-rich options. I often take a duffel bag for longer trips, but backpacks and messenger bags are more convenient for hands-free sprints down the concourse near departure time.

What to Look for in a Personal Item Bag: Search for a comfortable, airline-complaint bag suitable for one-bag travel and will help you avoid extra boarding fees by stashing underneath the seat in front of you.

Travel Organizers Our Top Picks of 2024

TOM BIHN checkered packing cube on a wooden table

I like keeping my belongings nice and tidy inside my bag, so travel organizers are lifesavers. I rely on them to help me find essential toiletries, packing cubes, ditty bags, cables, adapters, and all the other miscellany of life on the road. ‘Tidy’ is satisfying.

Trust me, travel organizers make packing and unpacking much less of a hassle. I especially love the transparent and zippered bags that keep everything visible, secure, and easily accessible. Travel is stressful enough; we don’t need the extra burden of chaotic clutter.

What to Look for in a Travel Organizer: Search for durable, water-resistant packing solutions that fit your belongings comfortably and have the proper dimensions to stash inside your main travel bag without restriction.

Minimalist Wallet/Purse Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet Travelambo Purse

Black wallet on a wooden table

A purse or wallet designed for travel is another sanity saver. Monitoring your spending is easier with a lightweight, compact, minimalist front-pocket wallet — we highly recommend the Slimfold Soft Shell wallet pictured above.

Women may want a stylish but minimalist purse with organized storage for the basics. The Travelambo we recommend will efficiently stash your ID, cash, credit cards, and not much else. Minimalism is a good thing when traveling.

Why We Travel With the Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet: It’s soft and stretchy yet durable and sports RFID protection to thwart hackers and thieves. Its lightweight and minimalist design helps reduce bulk in our pockets.

Bluetooth Headphones Apple AirPods Pro

White bluetooth earbuds on a wooden table

Wireless headphones are a top travel necessity for anyone listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks that muffle their noisy surroundings. I use my Apple AirPods Pro daily when I travel. High-quality Bluetooth headphones like these are a no-brainer.

AirPods are my favorites as they have excellent sound and solid battery life. Plus, you can use their built-in microphone to talk on the phone when a call comes in. And, of course, they’re cordless, so the aggravation of tangled cords will be a non-issue.

Why We Travel With the Apple AirPods Pro: They pump out quality sound and use active noise cancellation to block out background noise. If you’re an iPhone user, they connect to your phone automatically once you put them in your ears.

Lightweight Titanium Water Bottle Our Top Picks of 2024

Blue titanium water bottle on a wooden table

You need to stay hydrated, whether you’re summiting a mountain or wandering crowded city streets. I recommend sipping your beverage from a titanium water bottle; they’re rugged, ultra-lightweight, and won’t leach off any flavors to your drink.

Titanium water bottles come in all shapes and sizes and should fit easily and compactly in your bag. And by saying ‘no’ to single-use plastic containers, you’re doing your part to combat pollution, including microplastics in the water supply.

What to Look for in a Titanium Water Bottle: Opt for a single-wall bottle if your focus is keeping it lightweight. Go for double-wall if you want to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. We love the Snow Peak Aurora, pictured above, over all others.

Laptop Case/Sleeve tomtoc 360°

Black laptop sleeve/case on a wooden table

Laptops have become essential for traveling, whether watching Netflix, working remotely, or keeping in touch with loved ones. Packing your laptop without proper protection is a big no-no, so grab a laptop case or sleeve for extra protection.

I like the Tomtoc 360° because its plush padded shell includes corner reinforcement and a decent amount of storage for accessories. I’ve dinged-up laptops in the past, so I’m a big advocate of protective cases and sleeves.

Why We Travel With the tomtoc 360°: It’s the lightest and most straightforward laptop case/sleeve for our needs. It fits our MacBook Pros like a glove, and its zippers are buttery smooth. There are ten colors to choose from!

Durable Phone Case OtterBox

Blue phone case on a wooden table

Many people choose an OtterBox as their go-to phone case, and so do I. They’re the market’s most trusted brand, and their cases are definitely ‘engineered to endure.’ There’s a wide variety of stylish designs and colors, so grab one to protect your precious phone.

Imagine trying to travel the globe with a smashed phone. Not a pleasant picture, is it? Too many phones are BSB designs — “Beautiful, Slippery, and Brittle” — so protect your phone and your investment with a rugged case from a trusted brand.

Why We Travel With an OtterBox: OtterBox is the OG in smartphone protection and has a reputation for putting out sturdy, reliable, and ergonomic products. They come in various colors and styles and offer MagSafe options for iPhones.

Ultra-Compact & Lightweight Power Bank Nitecore NB10000 Gen II

Black device charging power bank on a wooden table

Letting your gadgets run out of juice in the middle of a busy day is a rookie move. Use a power bank like the Nitecore to top up your device batteries. Despite its compact size, this will keep your electronics alive until you can return to your home base to charge up and wind down.

This Nitecore is a medium-duty 10,000mAh power bank sized for phones, tablets, and cameras. However, if you also need to charge laptops and other power-hungry devices, consider splurging for a bigger, more powerful unit.

Why We Travel With the Nitecore NB Gen II: It’s the lightest and most compact 10,000mAh power bank on the market. Its carbon fiber enclosure is sleek, durable, and IPX5-rated water resistant.

Compact Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker JBL Go 3

Black portable must-have bluetooth speaker on a wooden table

Do you like to listen to music as you get ready in your hotel room or soak in a sunset on the beach? Then, grab a portable Bluetooth speaker. This may not seem like ‘essential’ travel gear, but many of us (myself included) consider it a necessary comfort of home when out on the road.

The JBL Go 3’s sound quality makes it an easy recommendation, as does its portability, waterproofing, and value. I use it to listen to podcasts, create white noise for sleeping in noisy environments, and to motivate myself during bodyweight travel workouts .

Why We Travel With the JBL Go 3: For its size, it cranks out respectable sound and punchy bass. It’s lightweight, portable, waterproof, and dust-proof. At $50, it’s a good value that should last for several years of travel.

Compact International Travel Adapter Anker 735

Black and grey laptop adapter on a wooden table

If you’re a globetrotter like me, you already know that reliable and powerful travel adapters are must-haves. This is the lightest and most compact charger I’ve used that can charge my MacBook Pro, and it keeps all of my other electronics powered and ready to go. Ironically, I use it to keep my Nitecore power bank topped up… a charger for a charger.

Frequent travelers stay in touch and find their way using their digital devices, so it’s wise to recharge with a compact and reliable product. We rely on our adapters, and it’s good to know that Anker has a reputation for reliable and innovative products.

Why We Travel With the Anker 735: It’s about 40% the size of a standard MacBook charger and has two extra USB charging ports; it’s as compact and lightweight as you could ask for. Anker products are as rock-solid as they come.

Compact Phone Kickstand/Tripod The Pocket Tripod

Pocket Tripod brand phone kickstand on a wooden table

Your phone’s camera will take better low-light photos if you stabilize it with a tripod. And this tripod is the size of a credit card, making it a perfect travel companion. It’s also a kickstand to hold your phone steady while it plays videos as you nod off during the flight to your next destination.

Versatility is why I chose The Pocket Tripod as a travel essential. It’s a convenient and innovative piece of gear that I always have on hand, ready for the next great photo opp. A steady camera means less image blur, better self-portraits, and more hands-free video chats.

Why We Travel With the Pocket Tripod: It reliably props up phones when filming adventures, chatting with loved ones, or watching movies on an airplane. It weighs half an ounce and can be stashed away virtually unnoticed in a wallet or purse.

Ultralight Camera Clip Peak Design Capture

Black aluminum camera clip on a wooden table

When I travel with a camera, I keep it close at hand with the Peak Design Capture clip. I no longer have an excuse to leave my camera behind because I don’t want to bother with straps or cases. Always having my camera within reach means no more missed opportunities for the perfect photo.

I prefer the Peak Design Camera Clip to tangle-prone camera straps. It’s lightweight and easy to attach to a backpack, bag, or belt. Use it if you travel with an expensive camera to keep it hands-free until the moment you need it.

Why We Travel With the Peak Design Capture: We travel with expensive cameras that must be protected at all costs. Not only does the Capture protect them, but it also allows us to forego annoying and cumbersome camera straps.

High-Quality Travel Journal Moleskine

Black soft cover travel essential journal on a wooden table

Travelers keep journals to document and make sense of their lives. Paper journals have been around for centuries, and they’re a tradition that’s far more intimate than typing notes into a cell phone. Moleskine journals are legendary — Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and David Bowie all captured their thoughts on those distinctive creamy ivory pages.

For me, journaling is calming and therapeutic, especially in nature. My thoughts and memories seem to expand when I write by hand. It’s a ritual I cherish, and traveling inspires me. Set your smartphone aside and give it a try. It’s delightful.

Why We Travel With the Moleskine Soft Cover Journal: Information comes at us from a million different directions while traveling, and we need a journal to make sense of it all. The Moleskine is durable and has 240 no-bleed pages.

The Write Everywhere Pen Fisher Space Pen

Fischer Space Pen writing necessity on a wooden table

High-quality journal pages deserve high-quality pens, and that’s where Fisher Space pens come in. They were designed for astronauts floating in zero-gravity environments! I’ll bet their journal entries are slightly different from yours and mine.

Fisher Space Pens have a no-nonsense heft, plus a special ink with a velvety glide. Their compact Bullet Pens slip easily into purses and pockets, and writing with one puts me in the mood to jot down my day’s adventures. Life’s too short to use Bic pens.

Why We Travel With the Fisher Space Pen: This bad boy will write underwater and in zero gravity, in case your travels take you somewhere out of this world. It’s compact, rugged, streamlined for smooth writing, and will last forever.

Noise-Blocking Earplugs Howard Leight by Honeywell

Yellow and pink earplugs on a wooden table

Moving from Point A to Point B often exposes you to plenty of noise — jet engines, city traffic, crowds, and much more. Battery-operated noise- canceling headphones have their place, but simpler, old-school noise- blocking methods like earplugs are also worth considering.

Traditional earplugs like these colorful inserts from Honeywell can block many of the noises you’ll encounter when traveling. I use mine regularly on airplanes when I’m tired of my headphones but still need relief from the cabin soundscape or Jerry from Omaha snoring loudly in the seat next to me.

Why We Travel With the Howard Leight by Honeywell Earplugs:  Whenever you inevitably cross a screaming child in an airplane, you’ll thank us for this recommendation. These are comfy, contoured, and soil-resistant to prevent dirt build-up.

Essential Travel Clothing

Merino wool t-shirt wool&prince (men’s) wool& (women’s).

Man wearing a black t-shirt standing against a white wall

Clothes designed for travel enthusiasts should be lightweight, comfortable, and well-fitting. That’s why I suggest Merino Wool T-Shirts from Wool&Prince (for men) and Wool& (for women). W&P is a top supplier of Merino wool clothing and my favorite brand on the market today.

W&P shirts are super soft, anti-microbial, odor-resistant, and perfect for travel. Banish smelly clothes that cause discomfort over the course of a day. The best part for travelers is that these shirts can remain odor-free for several days — quite a benefit for those on the go.

Why We Wear Wool&Prince While Traveling:  We can get away with wearing wool clothing for days, if not weeks , at a time between washes while traveling. Seriously. Wool&Prince shirts are true to size, fit incredibly well, and don’t shrink.

Lightweight & Versatile Travel Pants Outlier Slim Dungarees (Men’s) Vuori Ripstop (Women’s)

Man with blue pants standing against a white wall

I’m a travel pants nerd. When searching for the perfect pair, do your homework and choose one that balances comfort, functionality, and style. You’ll spend long hours wearing these travel pants, so you’ll want to be comfortable and good-looking.

Slim Dungarees and Ripstop pants are two of our absolute favorites. I’ve sampled several pairs of pants and travel jeans , and Vuori is one of my favorite brands. They’re versatile, and I wear them for everything from hiking to bouncing around town.

Why We Wear Ourlier & Vuori While Traveling: Both brands make incredibly stylish, comfortable, and durable pants that fit well. They’re durable enough for year-round use and breathable enough to wear in hot and humid climates.

One Pair Do-It-All Travel Shoes Our Top Picks of 2024

Two black shoes on a wooden table

For the no-checked-luggage traveler, I recommend bringing only ONE pair of do-it-all shoes. That can be tricky, especially if your trip involves a mix of city streets and hiking trails. Versatility and comfort should always be your top priorities, but never discount the value of a stylish pair of shoes or boots.

We’ve simplified your choice by listing our favorite footwear for both men and women. From sneakers to loafers and slip-ons to athletic shoes, you’ll likely find several varieties that might pique your interest for your upcoming trip. I only travel with one pair of shoes, so they must be versatile and comfortable.

What to Look for in a Pair of Travel Shoes: Search for a comfortable and lightweight pair of shoes that’ll let your feet breathe as you pile up the steps during your adventures. Bonus points for kicks that can be dressed up and dressed down.

Six Tips for a Perfect Packing List

Efficient travel requires a savvy mix of preparation, planning, and organization if you’re going to thrive out there. No matter the length of your trip, you must learn to prepare and pack wisely. To help you, here are a few tips for putting together the perfect packing list:

If It Doesn’t Add Value, It’s Not Essential

Avoid packing items that don’t serve a purpose or add value to your travels. Leave it at home if it doesn’t make the trip more enjoyable, productive, or efficient.

Define your essentials based on your activities — backpacking, camping, hiking, or visiting a new city. Pack only the essentials: clothing, footwear, technical gear, and personal care essentials that add value to your travel.

Focus on Multi-Purpose Essentials

Have you ever regretted your packing choices while out on the road? To avoid that feeling, pack items that serve multiple purposes. This will save time, and you’ll have fewer items to track.

For instance, select shoes or pants ideal for multiple activities, such as hiking and sightseeing. Another great multi-purpose item is an all-in-one bag like a fanny pack or backpack that can also be worn crossbody.

Aim for Compact and Lightweight Gear

Selecting the right items can be daunting, so if you’re a ‘just-in-case’ packer, you’ll quickly end up with an overstuffed bag. Stay focused on proven methods — lightweight and compact packing is the way to go.

Look for items that’ll pack up tightly and fit snugly in your bag or suitcase. Choose clothing and other items that will last the entire trip and can fold up neatly. Opt for shoes or sandals with lightweight soles that offer grip and traction but won’t overload your bag.

Do Your Homework Before You Buy

Avoid making terrible travel decisions, and always read reviews thoroughly before purchasing. This is especially true when making a rushed, last-minute purchase. Learn from customer experiences and insights into the product’s performance in different conditions and climates.

For example, if you’re shopping for technical apparel or a multi-purpose tool, tap into the wealth of knowledge out there. Solid research could lead you to buy something that performs well and lasts for years.

Embrace Minimalism

If you’re a minimalist traveler, you know the truth of the saying “less is more.” Minimalism is all about embracing the principle and avoiding the temptation of packing too much stuff. Clutter will drag you down and hold you back.

Start by looking for versatile items of clothing and footwear that can be used interchangeably in different settings or scenarios. And when you return home, keep track of the items you used most and decide what can be left behind next time.

Invest in Quality — Buy Once, Cry Once

Last but not least, invest in quality travel gear. The up-front costs of high-quality items are often offset by their greater utility and longer lifespan.

If you have to replace cheaper items every few trips, are they really saving you money? Probably not, especially if the higher-quality items have a solid warranty and offer reputable customer service.

Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for 2024

Passport, packing cube, water bottle, speaker, headphones, adapter, and other travel essentials

Are you ready to draft your own perfect packing list for 2024? Our list of travel essentials for men and women may not match yours, but we hope you found a few items that will add value to your next journey. The goal is to find gear and clothing that will add consistent value to your life on the road.

Please share any tips or gear recommendations you have in the Comments section below. We’re especially interested in hearing what’s worked for you (or not) regarding trip planning, organization, packing lists, and any advice you may have on travel-friendly clothing or general-use gear.

We’d also love to hear your thoughts on the minimalist lifestyle, specifically regarding travel. What kind of travel do you do, and how much do you pack? Have your definitions of ‘must-haves’ and ‘luxuries’ changed over the years? After all, being a nimble traveler is both a physical and a philosophical journey. Let’s share and compare our paths.

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

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Lauren De Almeida

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The Five Foot Traveler

The Five Foot Traveler

Reaching new heights, 137 travel essentials: a comprehensive packing list.

by Sarah Gallo | Aug 15, 2019 | Resources | 2 comments

You’ve decided that you wanted to travel somewhere new, so you booked a flight, secured your hotels, and told all of your friends. You eagerly search Instagram for the must-see spots and, before you know it, you leave in a few weeks! Now, I never recommend saving packing for the last minute, but it’s silly to start gathering your travel essentials few months out too. 

This article is meant to serve as a guideline for the most efficient ways to go about packing your travel essentials. Coming from someone who has visited over 100 countries, it’s safe to say that I’ve done enough trial and error for all of you! In this article you will find the most useful carry on essentials, packing and clothing essentials, outdoor essentials, fitness “on the go” essentials, reading essentials, and business management essentials.

girl taking a selfie with a chimp

Chimp trekking in Uganda with travel essentials on hand

Now, here’s the thing: this list of travel essentials covers just about everything, so try not to get overwhelmed. No matter your age, no matter your type of travel, this comprehensive list should be used as a guideline to decide what you need to pack depending on your trip. For instance, you certainly won’t pack the same things for a luxury cruise through the Caribbean , an RV trip through New Zealand , or a road trip through South Africa . Of course, it should go without saying, but if you’re going to places like Antarctica or the Arctic, you will certainly need to include gear for extremities, and a packing list is almost always provided. 

Please note: This page contains affiliate links, meaning that The Five Foot Traveler may receive a small commission when you purchase any travel essentials using the links in this article at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!

I personally use and own everything that I recommend below. 

Before you begin packing, please make sure you go through this checklist of absolute, no questions asked travel essentials:

  • Is your Passport valid for six months after you depart your destination and for the duration of your trip?
  • Have you checked to see if you have all of the necessary visas for where you’re visiting?
  • Have you purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan ?

Hopefully you’ve answered YES to the above questions, so let’s dive in. First thing’s first, I always recommend having a staging area for your travel essentials well before you pack. For me, it’s the loveseat in my bedroom, but anywhere will do (although I do suggest keeping it out of reach from messy children or pets). Here, you can organize the travel goodies you’ve purchased and start organizing your piles of clothes and toiletries. I find this useful because I usually want to use the things I need to pack, so I’m not a big fan of throwing everything into a suitcase two weeks prior to departure.

And speaking of suitcases, decide early on the way you’d like to travel. Are you going on a luxury European vacation? Trekking through the Himalayas? Relaxing on a beach somewhere? Your luggage should reflect your style of travel. Since I started this travel journey as a backpacker, I initially checked a 55L backpack and used a hiking backpack as my carry on.

backpacking travel essentials

When I first started backpacking these were my travel essentials

Then I started traveling carry on only, where I used a spinner carry on and a hiking backpack as my personal item. Then, finally, when I transitioned into luxury travel and *gasp* needed to pack heels and a variety of dresses, I started checking a 24” spinner and bringing with me a carry on spinner on the plane and a cross body bag as my personal item for under the seat in front of me.

women's travel pants & travel essentials

I've cleaned up a bit over the years though, don't worry!

I’ve loved every backpack, bag, and suitcase that I’ve owned and highly recommend picking and choosing between the following:

Airplane Personal Item

  • Cross-Body Bag:  If you want to look a little more put together, but want easy access to all of your carry on travel essentials, a cross-body bag is a must. If you like to travel with your laptop, make sure you purchase one that has a laptop sleeve too. Of course, it should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you but roomy enough that you won’t have to dig around in it to find what you want. My Recommendation – Vera Bradley Lighten Up Weekender Travel Bag . This is honestly an absolute must for me, and I bring it everywhere I go.
  • Backpack: Your backpack should be both supportive and spacious. I love that this also can substitute as a hiking day pack. Everything that I pack in my cross-body bag will also fit in my 24L backpack, so it just comes down to personal preference. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. These both have incredible structure and hip support.

Airplane Carry On Item

  • A Spinner Carry On Suitcase: If you’re questioning whether you should get a suitcase with two wheels or four wheels, always choose the four-wheel spinner. It will make your life easier as you both navigate crowds within the airport and on the busy streets of your destination. Trust me on this, as I converted from a two-wheeler to a four-wheeler and it made a huge difference in the way that I travel. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 21” Hardside Spinner. Hardside here is key. It helps you not to overpack, and it is also more durable for your travels. This is one of the most lightweight hardside carry on suitcases that you’ll find on the market, and it has a built-in TSA-approved lock as well as a limited lifetime warranty.
  • If you’re not carrying on a suitcase, you may be able to carry on both recommended personal items – depending on the airline, size, and weight.

Airplane Checked Item

  • Spinner Checked Suitcase: Again, I highly recommend a spinner four-wheel suitcase over a two-wheel suitcase for the purpose of ease. Personally, I like when my carry on spinner and checked spinner match, which led me back to TravelPro. I like the way that the inside is organized, and it’s helpful that each of their hardside spinners come with a built-in TSA-approved lock. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 25” Spinner and TravelPro Maxlite 5 29” Spinner. Depending on the type of trip you’re taking (and how many shoes haha), you’ll need to decide which size checked luggage works for you. I find it useful to have a 25” and 29” on hand, but 99% of the time I will choose just to bring the 25” Spinner, as I’ve found that’s more than enough for me. If you’d like to purchase the 21”, 25”, and 29” as a set – which is the best bang for your buck – you can do so here.
  • Trekkers Pack: Now, if you’re moving around a lot, camping, trekking, and staying in refugios, then a trekkers pack will certainly be the better option for you. When I first started traveling I used a trekkers pack, and it definitely has its benefits for the active among us! When researching which pack to get, make sure that it’s easily opened from multiple points on the bag, that it has plenty of pockets for your smaller items, and provides you with plenty of support. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . I tried on what felt like hundreds of trekkers packs before realizing that these were, hands down, the ideal pack that I was looking for. I have carried quite a bit of weight in mine, and it was always comfortable on the hips and shoulders. Plus, Osprey has an “all mighty guarantee” where they will repair any damage free of charge and, if they can’t fix it, they will replace it at no cost to you. Incredibly, this applies to all of their products, no matter the purchase date. You can read more about it here , if interested. 
  • Rolling Duffle: At the end of the day, some people just love duffle bags (my grandpa is one of them!). They’re a great combination of a duffle bag and rolling suitcase, and you have the ability to carry the bag or roll it, depending on your circumstances. My Recommendation – TravelPro Rolling Duffle Bag with Drop Bottom. This comes in all different colors and sizes, but I recommend the 30”, as it’s plenty roomy without being overwhelming. This rolling duffle is lightweight, yet incredibly durable; it survived a few weeks of safaris in Africa with no problems. It also has many different pockets and separators to keep your bag well-organized. 

To keep your luggage organized as a whole, I couldn’t recommend packing cubes highly enough. I originally didn’t think they had much use, but they’ve changed my life when it comes to packing – whether it’s just for a weekend trip or a year-long journey. They come in all different sizes, and I use a variety of small, medium, and large packing cubes. My Recommendation: I have tested many packing cubes over the years, and I can say – without a doubt – that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes are the absolute best on the market. They are incredibly durable and as lightweight as possible. And look at how nicely they fit into a suitcase!

packing cubes and other travel essentials

How I pack my carry on to include all travel essentials

And always remember: lock all of your luggage with TSA-approved locks if you don’t have a suitcase with built in locks. Both checked luggage, and carry on (yes, this means backpacks too). I’ve tried many different locks over the years, but these are my favorite. I presume you’re like me and don’t want people sifting through your checked bag nor people sneaking into your carry on while you sleep (have you heard the stories of valuables being stolen from airplanes?).

But now that you’ve chosen your luggage, you’re probably wondering what travel essentials are actually necessary to pack….

I’m going to break down my packing list into easy-to-organize categories for you. Just remember to pick and choose what you most need for the trip you’re taking. So, let’s do this!

Carry On Essentials

Documents & Confirmations: These are things that you simply must have on you at all times. DO NOT leave your house without packing these into your personal items, as they are absolute travel essentials. 

Comfort: Unless you travel first class, flights are rarely considered comfortable – and it doesn’t matter if it’s an easy 5-hour flight or a 19-hour flight! Make your life easier by packing these few travel essentials for a bit of extra comfort. There’s no way that I could do an overnight flight even semi-comfortably without these!

girl on airplane with over-the-ear noise cancelling headphones, a sleep mask, and a pillow - travel essentials

Noise Cancelling Headphones, Eye Mask, Pillow – Travel Essentials

  • Blow Up Pillow:  I’ll start by saying that I think I’ve tried every airplane pillow out there, or just about! Since I take so many overnight flights, and we all know how airplane pillows feel, it makes sense to bring your own. I began not to worry about the shape or size — if it helped me sleep, it was a keeper. My Recommendation – Haobaimei Airplane Pillow. I know, I know it looks a bit silly, but I promise you that it’s the best airplane pillow out there. It has allowed me to sleep comfortably in a variety of positions. I’d like to be able to describe it in detail, but you’re better off clicking this link , and scrolling to the “product description” to see all of the reasons why this pillow is a must!
  • Foot Rest: You’re probably thinking, “what?” But yes, airplane footrests are a thing, and quite comfortable. Rather than trying to squeeze your legs under the chair (and slam your shins along the way), you can instead set up your footrest. My Recommendation – Sleepy Ride. I’ve had this footrest for years; it’s incredibly lightweight and folds up tiny. It’s very easy to set up, and you can adjust the height to your preference. 
  • Eye Mask – Eye Masks are a tricky thing. Assuming that it will be over your eyes for hours on end, you need to ensure that it doesn’t press against your eyes, doesn’t let light in, and doesn’t slip off your head. My Recommendation – Manta Sleep Mask. I was drawn in not only by their 100% darkness guaranteed, but also by the fact that you can still open your eyes behind the mask too! The fact that there is zero pressure on your eyes, and that it’s fully customizable to your unique face makes it a must have!
  • Compression Socks:  Compression socks are important to wear while flying, especially if it’s a long-haul flight! They not only increase circulation, but they help prevent blood clots and swelling too. My Recommendation – Alvada Compression Socks for Men & Women. Get them and remember to bring them on your next flight! 
  • Cambridge Mask: I have always traveled with a mask on hand, should I get sick or should there be something going around. Cambridge Masks are amongst the best out there, as their masks meet the N99 standard and protect against almost 100% of pollutants, viruses, and bacteria *if the mask is worn correctly.* Whenever using a mask, make sure that it's snug on your face, avoid touching the front of the mask, and be sure to wash your hands before putting the mask on/taking it off.  My Recommendation –  Cambridge Mask Co.
  • Earplanes: Have you ever struggled with painful ear popping on airplanes? Well I get horrible ear pain whenever I fly… to the point where I cannot fly without them. My Recommendation – EarPlanes Pack of 3. These work fantastically to relieve the pressure in your ears during take off and landing, while muffling some of the noise too. 
  • Reusable Water Bottle:  I always recommend traveling with a water bottle on hand for two reasons. (1) It’s good to have a bottle that the flight attendants can fill up for you so that you’re not stuck to 3 sips of water until the next flight attendant comes back. (2) Having a reusable water bottle can help minimize your plastic waste. My Recommendation – Hydro Flask. The Hydro Flask is a BPA-free stainless steel, slip free water bottle. It comes in a variety of sizes and will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Definitely handy to have while traveling!
  • Sweatshirt or Jacket: Planes (or any type of transportation honestly) can sometimes be unbearably cold! I definitely recommend always having a sweatshirt or jacket on hand, or both, as I doubt anyone wants to be freezing and uncomfortable for hours on end. 
  • Change of Clothes: No one likes a smelly person 😉 But in all honesty, it’s important to have a change of clothes on hand for just in case your luggage gets lost. If you’re going on a beach trip, pack a bathing suit. A hiking trip, pack your spandex. You get the point. 
  • Carabiners – While this may seem a bit random, carabiners are incredibly useful for travel. I use a carabiner to clip my water bottle to my carry on, as well as to clip my pillow and footrest to the seat in front of me too. You don’t need anything fancy, so something like these will do. 

Technology & Valuables: Anything of value should never be checked. Make sure that all technology and valuables (like jewelry & sunglasses) are packed in your carry on and in a locked compartment. Some of these things may be obvious, but I’m still including them if you reference this as your packing list. 

As a content creator, I obviously pack a lot more tech than the average person, but please use the list below as a guideline for what to pack tech-wise according to your needs. Perhaps you’ll even find something new to bring with you on your next trip! 

girl on laptop by the ocean - travel essentials

A typical day with my laptop on the road

  • Smartphone: This is a given these days, but make sure you pack your phone! It’s also incredibly helpful to have some apps downloaded that might help make your travel easier. My favorite is App in the Air 🙂 My Recommendation – iPhone Xs Max. If you’re looking for a new smartphone, I have an iPhone Xs Max 256 GB and absolutely love it. 
  • Noise Cancelling Headphones (and iPod):  Airplanes are noisy. People are noisy. Babies are noisy. Get rid of the noise! My Recommendation – Bose QuietComfort 35 II. These wireless, bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones are honestly a dream. They are the very first thing I pack in my personal item, as I couldn’t do a flight without them! Of course, make sure you have music downloaded on your phone or iPod to listen to as well (and yes, I still use an iPod). 
  • Earbuds: While I’m obsessed with noise cancelling headphones, it’s always a good idea to have a regular pair of earbuds too. They do make noise-cancelling earbuds as well, but those have never felt right to me. My Recommendation – Apple Airpods with Charging Case. These Airpods automatically connect to your device and charge within 15 minutes once you put them back in their case. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to travel with. 
  • Kindle:  I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. I love that it allows me to travel with as many books as I’d like, without the burden of actually having to lug them around. My Recommendation – Kindle Paperwhite. The flush design is as close to “paper” as it gets and there are no glares (this I can promise, as I always read at the beach in the sun!). It is also waterproof, which is convenient, and pairs with bluetooth headphones as well if you’re an audiobook listener. 
  • Laptop:  Depending on what you do or for how long you’re traveling, you may not need to bring your laptop. My Recommendation – MacBook Air or MacBook Pro 15”. These both have very different uses. For travel, the MacBook Air is significantly easier to travel with. While it’s infinitely lighter though, it doesn’t have the same processing power as the MacBook Pro 15”. If you plan on editing a lot of photos or videos, unfortunately the heavier MacBook Pro 15” should be your go-to. I personally used (and loved) the MacBook Air for years before switching to the MacBook Pro 15”, which is what I use now (for a stronger and faster laptop). 
  • Laptop Case:  Even if your backpack or messenger bag has a laptop sleeve, be sure to have your laptop in its own protective case! My Recommendation – CCPK Laptop Sleeve. This is as basic a laptop sleeve as it gets, but it is snug and will protect your laptop, without adding extra bulk. 
  • External Hard Drive:  If you’re on the road a lot or take excess photos, you’ll certainly want an external hard drive on hand to back everything up! My Recommendation –  LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive. I’ve had multiple LaCie Rugged Hard Drives, and I’ve loved each and every one of them. They’re perfect for any kind of trip, as they’re compact, durable, and water-resistant. And if you’re interested in learning how to better edit your photos, it even comes with a complimentary one-month membership to Adobe! 
  • USB Drive: I can’t even begin to tell you how many times people ask if I can give them a USB drive with photos. It’s an extremely small, very useful thing to have on you if you’re in the content creation space. My Recommendation – SanDisk Cruzer Glide CZ60 USB Drive . I personally recommend the 256 GB, as you’ll never worry about running out of space, but any will do based on your needs. 
  • DSLR Camera: Now this one is tricky one because every person has different travel needs and preferences. I’ve personally traveled with a Canon, Sony, and Panasonic… but it wasn’t until I traveled with an Olympus Camera that I was fully content. My Recommendation – Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Not only is it the lightest DSLR that I have ever carried around with me, but it’s waterproof and weather-sealed, which makes it ideal for every situation. This is my go-to travel camera these days, and you can read the full review of my Olympus products here.  

girl leans over side of cruise ship to take a photo

Always travel equipped with a good camera!

  • Lenses:  Again, lenses will depend on the type of photo that you’re aiming to get. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II can be purchased with two different lenses, or you can purchase the lenses separately. My Recommendation – M. Zuiko 14-150mm f4-5.6 for your everyday lens and M.Zuiko 7-14mm f2.8 PRO for a wide angle lens. I originally thought I wouldn’t need a wide angle lens, but sure was wrong!
  • GoPro: By now I’m sure you’ve heard that the GoPro is the best action-cam on the market and, guess what, it’s true. Whether you’re running down the beach, zip-lining through the air, or diving with sharks, the GoPro can help perfectly capture the moment. My Recommendation – GoPro Hero 8. The GoPro Hero 8 prides itself on filming in 4K, taking 12 MP still shots, and having the best stabilization on an action camera. This is a must for any adventure traveler! 
  • Memory Cards:  Make sure you purchase high quality memory cards. I always recommend smaller memory card sizes, and a lot of them. If a memory card were to become corrupt, I would hate to lose everyone on a 256 GB memory card! My Recommendation – SanDisk 32 GB Extreme Pro for your camera and the SanDisk 64 GB Micro SD for your GoPro. The Extreme Pro writes quite quickly at 95 mbps and the Micro SD is a Class 10, meaning that it will work great for full HD video playback. Both SD Cards are waterproof, shock proof, and temperature-proof. 
  • Gimbal:  No one likes shaky videos. If you’re shooting with a smartphone or GoPro, a gimbal helps stabilize your videos and keeps them smooth. They’re relatively lightweight and portable, and a necessity if you want to get into video. My Recommendation – DJI Osmo Mobile 2. DJI is an incredible reputable brand and their gimbal is one of the most lightweight on the market. Run, jump, do everything in between, and this gimbal will keep your videos stable. 
  • FitBit: It’s no secret that I’ve always loved my FitBit. I’ve worn one for years, and I love that it provides me with in-depth sleep analytics while also counting my steps, calories, and distance walked for the day. My Recommendation – FitBit Versa. I’ve had a few different FitBit’s over the years, and the Versa is definitely my favorite! It’s the biggest competitor to the Apple Watch, and I prefer its exercise analytics and sleek design. You can also download your favorite apps and music on your FitBit Versa too! 
  • Portable Speaker:  I actually bought the UE Roll out of necessity when our other speaker died on a road trip through New Zealand , but I’m SO happy we did! It’s incredibly portable and easily hung up or carried with you. My Recommendation – UE Roll Wireless. This bluetooth speaker is not only wireless, but waterproof and shockproof too. It has great sound quality, and  it makes for the perfect addition to any camp out, beach day, or general use around the house. 
  • Portable Battery Charger: You never know when your phone or camera might die. I always always always carry a portable battery charger with me. Not only does it ensure that I will always be charged up, but it’s also nice to be able to provide your friends with a bit of juice when their phones die too (because, no, they typically never have an external battery charger). My Recommendation – myCharge AdventureMax Portable Charger . The myCharge is an important buy for travelers because, aside from having dual USB ports for charging (which is awesome), it is also splash-proof, drop-resistant, and dirt-proof, making it the perfect travel buddy. It’s also incredibly small and compact and has an attached carabiner, so it’s easy to throw in your purse or attach off a backpack.  
  • International Adaptor: No matter where you’re traveling, this is an absolute must. I always carry at least two international adaptors so that, if one breaks, I always have a back up. You would be surprised how many people forget to pack an international adaptor. My Recommendation – Upgraded Universal Travel Adaptor. The reason I love this travel adaptor is that not only does it have a standard plug, but four USB ports as well. Sometimes I don’t have a long time to charge my equipment, but with this adaptor I have the ability to charge everything at the same time. This Universal Adaptor works in over 150 countries, so it’s certainly handy to have!
  • Chargers: If you have a lot of gear, it’s likely that you have a lot of cords and cables. While there’s no need to elaborate, these are the main chargers that I always have on hand. 

Medications: When people think of travel essentials, they don’t typically think of meds, but important Medications should never be checked! Should your luggage be lost, you don’t want to be without your daily meds. If you have prescribed medication, ensure that it is packed in your carry on. Aside from our individual health needs, I recommend packing – at minimum – Advil, Allergy Medications, Pepto-Bismol (or something similar), Motion Sickness Tablets, Tylenol AM/PM, and Malaria Tablets (depending on your destination), as well as Neosporin Cream and Hydrocortisone Cream. And, of course, if you carry an EpiPen, don’t forget that either! 

Miscellaneous: These are some small things I wasn’t sure how to categorize, but I make sure to have all of these in my carry on as well!

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Clothing is a tricky one, as this really varies per person. I’ve done 8 month trips where I’ve had 5 tops and 5 bottoms, and weeklong cruise trips where I have 20 outfits for 7 days. I highly recommend Anatomie as your go-to travel clothing brand though, and they’ve actually been endorsed by both Forbes Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler. Please take the time to view these three articles:

  • The Best Travel Pants For Women
  • The Best Travel Shirts For Women
  • Travel Clothes For Women 

women's travel pants & travel essentials

With the founders of Anatomie, my go-to travel clothing!

In general though, you can use the table below as a rough guideline for the types of clothing you should pack. I don’t go anywhere without these things – no matter what season it is. Remember when packing, your clothes will typically get a bit wrinkly, so I recommend bringing a travel-sized wrinkle releaser as well as a dual-voltage travel steamer. 

Toiletries: Do yourself a favor and purchase the Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Bag . It’s the perfect sized toiletry bag and very lightweight. It should easily fit all of your toiletries, aside from your Microfiber Towel ( this is a must! ). There’s no need to explain what each toiletry is needed for though, so I’m providing you with another table with what to bring – 

Shoes: Shoes are always a personal preference. I used to travel with just one pair of flip flops and one pair of hiking boots, but times have changed a bit. I know other people who practically need a whole suitcase just for their heels. With that said, these days I typically pack sandals, a pair of flip-flops, black heels, nude heels, cross-training shoes, sneakers, and hiking boots when I’m going on a longer trip. And, of course, plenty of socks! I recommend Puma’s ankle socks and Darn Tough hiking socks. 

Gotta have a good pair of heels while you're cruising!

Outdoor Essentials

Camping: So you’ve decided that you want to become one with nature, or you’re simply on a trip that’s better suited for camping – awesome! Years ago I spent two months camping through Central America and another two months camping through Africa, and both were incredible experiences. It helped that I was well-prepared though! It’s important to note that even if you decide to camp in the summer (or in a desert), it is not always warm at night. I’ve learned this the hard way, so make sure you pack many layers and are prepared for every type of climate, every time. My go-to camping equipment is as follows –

a tent with the milky way overhead

Couldn't have camped in New Zealand without my lightweight tent!

  • Big Agnes Tent: Big Agnes is the best of the best when it comes to finding the most lightweight, durable tents. I used a bulkier tent for my first camping trip and regretted it instantly. My Recommendation – Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 3. I’ve loved every night that I’ve spent in this tent — it’s unbelievably light for a three-person tent, very comfortable, and weatherproof too! I always opt for a three-person tent over a two-person tent so that we can keep our gear inside with us and have a little extra space. 
  • Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad is a necessity. When I first started camping I tried to go cheap to save money, but it was a terrible decision. It definitely isn’t fun spending the night slipping and sliding off your mat, or feeling the ground under your back. My Recommendation –  Big Agnes Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad. This sleeping pad comes with the option of it being insulated or uninsulated, and I’d definitely recommend the insulation as it’s rated for 3-season camping and still only weighs in at 21oz! This folds up incredibly small (about the size of a water bottle) yet doesn’t compromise on its comfort. 
  • Sleeping Bag: A roomy yet packable sleeping bag is also, obviously, very important for camping. I recommend getting a 2-3 season sleeping bag and doing your research to ensure that it’s super lightweight. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag. The beauty of this sleeping bag is that it weighs just over a pound and packs down to just 4.9L! It also comes with a compression bag so that it compresses down to the size of a water bottle. This sleeping bag is water resistant, has a great hooded component, and will keep you warm all night. 
  • Sleep Liner: This is something that a lot of people forget about, but it’s incredibly handy. I suggest traveling with a sleep liner for a few reasons. First, it can be an extra layer if it’s colder outside, but it can also be your only layer if it’s too warm for your sleeping bag. Also, it doesn’t need to be used just for camping. When I used to stay in hostels, I’d use my sleep liner in bed rather than use the blanket. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Adaptor Coolmax Liner Traveller with Insect Shield. I’ve used this all over the world. You can purchase it without the insect shield, but I personally prefer having the extra insect repellant treatment, especially when in outdoorsy locations. 
  • Ultra Light Pillow: You want a comfortable, small blowup pillow to have with you. I’ve seen way too many people fold up their clothes into an uncomfortable pillow when they could have just brought a lightweight pillow. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultra Light. I’ve had this pillow for about five years now, and it’s never let me down. I won’t go anywhere without it. Not only does it pack down to smaller than the palm of my hand, but it’s genuinely comfortable! There have been many times where I’ve been in luxury hotels with pillows that were too high for me, so I just blew up this little pillow.  
  • Hammock or Sleeping Hammock: If you’re camping, sometimes you just want to hang out outside of the tent… literally. A hammock definitely comes in handy during those times! Travel hammocks are easy to set up and are great for lounging, napping or reading a book. My Recommendation – ENO DoubleNest Hammock. This is a two person hammock, but comfortable for just one as well. It folds down small and is quite lightweight. Sometimes we bring it on our hikes as well, rather than just keeping them at the campsite! If you don’t feel like sleeping in the tent, or have a third-wheeler tagging along, the ENO Ember 2 Under Quilt could be of use too. 

girl in hammock by the lake

Who doesn't love a good hammock?!

  • Cookware: If you’re camping, you’ll definitely want the ability to cook easily. We all know though that no one wants to lug metal pots and pans to their campsite. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit X-Series. It doesn’t get much better than lightweight, durable, and collapsible cookware! The 5-piece set comes with one pot, two bowls, and two mugs, so you may need to order more than one set depending on how many people you’re camping with. They fold up smaller than you could imagine! 
  • Spork: A spork is just one of the most convenient things you could have. Whether you need a spoon, knife, or fork, the spork has your back! I always carry a spork with me in my daypacks as well, as you never know when you will need one. My Recommendation – Tapirus 5 Spork of Steel Utensils Set. I highly recommend these rust-proof stainless steel sporks over their plastic equivalents. I had numerous plastic sporks break on me before transitioning to stainless steel and haven’t had any problems since. 
  • Inflatable Lounger: Have you seen these things?! They’re infinitely better than any camp chair and fold up even smaller! These are truly one of the most interesting and useful camping additions that I’ve seen. My Recommendation – AlphaBeing Inflatable Lounger. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, click that link and check it out — it’s one of those things that is better visualized than described.  
  • LED Camping Lantern: You certainly need something to light up your campsite or tent once it gets dark. As I like to keep things small and portable, I always suggest going for a lantern that collapses into itself. My Recommendation – MISPO 6 Pack Portable Camping Lantern with LED Flashlights. These are the perfect mini lanterns to put in and around your campsite. Then, when you’re not using them, they barely take up any space and pack away easily.  

Hiking: It’s important to practice safe hiking anywhere you go. As always, I recommend looking up your hiking trails in advance, letting someone know where you’re going, and having a trail map handy. Bring many layers, in addition to the following –

girl with a blue sweatshirt, red hat, and hiking poles stands in front of the matterhorn in switzerland - travel essentials

Couldn't have tackled the Matterhorn Base Camp without my hiking poles!

  • Hiking Backpack: If you’re planning on taking day trips from your campsite or accommodation, a good hiking backpack is a necessity. I always look for things like good waist support and structure, as well as ample pockets. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. If you don’t remember why I chose these packs specifically, please scroll back up to the “luggage” section. 
  • Trekkers Pack: If you’re going on a multi-day hike or staying in refugios along the trail, then you’ll need a bigger and better trekkers pack. Like the hiking backpack, this needs to be both structured and very comfortable. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . Jump back up to the “luggage” section if you’d like a refresher on these options.  
  • Hydration Pack: Whether you’re going out on a two hour hike on a hot summer day or a long trek, a water bladder makes a massive difference! You won’t have to deal with taking off your backpack to take a sip, or worrying about your water bottle falling out of the side pocket. Plus, you can carry far more water with a hydration pack as well. My Recommendation – CamelBak Crux 2L or 3L Reservoir. I originally thought I’d save money by going with a non-name brand, but when I did that my water always tasted like plastic and, quite frankly, it was disgusting. CamelBak deserves the praise that it gets, and it’s definitely worth the price tag. I have both a 2L and a 3L, depending on what type of hike I’m doing. I find the 3L more useful on a day-to-day basis, as it doesn’t always need to be filled to the top.
  • Hiking Poles: Hiking Poles are a necessity for any hiker, in my opinion. Hiking poles not only make you a bit faster, but they take some pressure off your knees too. I always look for carbon poles are they are a lot lighter than aluminum poles. My Recommendation –   Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles. Not only are these lightweight, 100% carbon fiber, and of the highest quality, but they also fold into three sections which makes them incredibly convenient to pack or attach to a backpack when not in use. 
  • Headlamp: Whether you’re completing a sunrise or sunset mission, wandering around your campsite in the evening, or misjudged the length of your hike, it is imperative to carry a headlamp on you whenever you’re hiking! My Recommendation – Black Diamond Storm Headlamp. This headlamp is both waterproof and dustproof, which is always helpful! It also had three different color LED options, as well as adjustable intensity. I also love that it has a lock mode, which keeps my headlamp from turning on in my pack!

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Hiking in the dark can be dangerous without a headlamp

  • Water Filter: A water filter is very important when you’re out hiking. If something happens and you run out of water, you can stick it into any water (from a dirty puddle to a river) and it should come out clean. My Recommendation – LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. The LifeStraw removes waterborne bacteria, waterborne parasites, and micro-plastics found in the environment from your water. It is the most reliable water filter system for a hiker on the market. One of the admirable things about LifeStraw is that for every product purchased, a child receives safe drinking water for an entire school year – pretty remarkable! 
  • Pocket Tissues: You never know when you’ll have a runny nose, have to clean up a spill… or need to pee. Just have them on you. 
  • First Aid Kit: This should be a given, but I know plenty of people who don’t hike with one. Should anything happen, it helps to know that you’re properly prepared. My Recommendation – M2 Basic 150 Piece First Aid Kit. This is a travel-sized first aid kit that is about the size of your hand, so there’s no excuse not to put it in your backpack!
  • Bug Spray Wipes: Applying bug spray is typically a pain and tends to leave you sticky and oily, but not with the wipes! My Recommendation: Repel 94100 Sportsmen 30-Percent Deet Mosquito Repellent Wipes. I started traveling with these in 2013 and haven’t looked back. They’re incredibly easy-to-use, portable, and protective. 
  • Clif Bars or Clif Protein Bars: You definitely need to ensure that you have some sustenance to keep you going while hiking. Although I’m not a big fan of the sugar content in Clif Bars, there’s no debating the fact that they were designed to help give your body fuel while active. My Recommendation – Clif Bar Variety Pack or, if you’re looking for a higher level of protein, the Clif Builders Protein Bar Variety Pack. While Clif Bars are – hands down – the tastiest protein bars on the market, my favorite flavors are the White Chocolate Macadamia and the Chocolate Mint. 
  • Hiking Boots: Wearing good hiking boots is, of course, imperative. Over the years, I’ve spent ages researching the best and most comfortable brands. Another aspect that’s always important to me is that they’re waterproof, as you never know what conditions you might be hiking in or if the weather might take a turn. My Recommendation – Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot and Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot. Once I discovered Lowa, I never turned back. I’ve owned four different pairs of their hiking boots, as I’m incredibly happy with the model. They are properly waterproof and supportive, and perfect for any type of hike be it short distance or long distance. 
  • Hiking Socks: If you hike a lot, you know how important a comfortable, breathable sock is. If you’re anything like me, your socks probably also take a bit of a beating, so you need to find something reliable. My Recommendation – Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Womens and Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Mens. Not only are Darn Tough socks incredibly comfortable and antimicrobial, but they are guaranteed for life! If you’re a frequent hiker, there’s no brand more reliable than Darn Tough, and they’re certainly worth the price tag.  
  • Base Layers: Base layers have saved me time and time again while out for long hikes, and I cannot stress their importance! If I’m not wearing my base layers, they’re in my bags. While there are so many brands and base layers out there, it’s important to do your research as I simply can’t list them all. My Recommendation – Women’s Ultra-Soft Long Johns & Warm Top Set and Men’s Thermal Underwear Set. Always, always make sure that your base layers are moisture-wicking!
  • Down Jacket: I carry a down jacket with me on every trail, every camping trip, and even every airplane. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sweltering hot or freezing cold, I always have one with me to ensure that I’m prepared. My Recommendation – Mountain Hardwear Women’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket and Men’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket. These jackets are, in my opinion, the best lightweight down jackets on the market. The hood is important, as it provides that extra warm, and they’re both machine-washable. Another aspect that I love – and find to be incredibly useful – is that it folds up into itself so that it packs down extremely small. The jacket is worth every cent to me, and I wouldn’t travel without it!

girl stands with northern lights in iceland

Staying warm in Iceland thanks to my down jacket

  • Rain Jacket: You’re pretty much crazy if you decide to go hiking without a rain jacket. Not only could the weather change from a beautiful day to an ugly storm in the blink of an eye, but it also serves as a windproof layer as well. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Jacket and Outdoor Research Men’s Horizon Jacket. After testing out multiple lightweight rain jackets, and finding myself soaked after a good rain, I decided to invest in a GORE-TEX rain jacket. While they’re slightly bigger, these rain jackets will still packs down small enough to throw in your backpack… and it will actually keep you try! They are waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable due to the multiple venting systems. 
  • Hat: An easily packable sun hat always comes in handy. While there are plenty of “cute” ones out there, I like to make sure that I purchase hats that can both be thrown in the wash and are moisture-wicking. My Recommendation –  Outdoor Research Women’s Solar Roller Hat. I discovered this hat a few years back, and found it so convenient that it’s the only hat that I ever hike or travel with. While this is obviously a women’s hat, the male or uni-sex equivalent would be the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat.  
  • Buff: Buffs have many uses – whether you’re wanting to keep your neck, face, or head warm. They’re lightweight and incredibly useful. My Recommendation – Buff Polar Multifunctional Headwear. I’ve owned many buffs in my life and, when I’m outdoors, the Polar Buff is most definitely my favorite. It has a SPF 50 and has fleece at the bottom and microfiber at the top, making it the perfect accessory to keep both your neck and face warm in chilly temperatures. It’s also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and can be worn in over ten different ways! 
  • Gloves: There are honestly so many warm, cozy gloves on the market that it’s hard to choose just one. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s PL Base Sense Gloves and the Outdoor Research Men’s PL Sensor Gloves . You need a glove that can withstand cold weather, is wind resistant, and offers touchscreen compatibility. 

Fitness “On The Go” Essentials

I get asked all the time how I stay in shape while on the road. Whether I’m in a luxury hotel and eating my heart out, or camping and carb loading, I can’t say that it’s easy. But I will say that it takes conscious effort every single day. I’ve learned to say no to two $0.25 ice cream cones in the same day, as tempting as it is! I also implement a strict workout routine, which has gotten infinitely easier since I started using LiveKick Fitness. They specialize in one-on-one personal training and private yoga done via live video — think FaceTime but for fitness! You can choose your (highly qualified) instructor for a time that works for you, no matter where you live in the world! I’ve done everything from high intensity exercise in my ocean view hotel in Australia to yoga in my office at home in the States. And the best part is, you don’t need access to a gym or any equipment if you don’t want! You could try out LiveKick Fitness here, and be sure to use the code “FIVEFOOTTRAVELER15” for 15% off your LiveKick plan! Other than being armed with my LiveKick Fitness App, I travel with –

on video in real time with livekick fitness - a personal trainer and a yoga instructor

Screen cap of my LiveKick personal training (left) & yoga (right)

  • Resistance Loop Exercise Bands – I started using looped resistance bands when I injured my knee two years ago, but it’s a fantastic addition to any workout when you’re a new exerciser or an exercise junkie. I use these largely for strength training and physical therapy.
  • Flat Exercise Bands – Flat exercise bands give you a few more options, which allows you to truly get a full body workout whenever you want.
  • Rumble Roller – My 12-inch RumbleRoller is one of my favorite things that I pack, when I have the space! Nothing feels better than this spiky foam roller after a good hike or exercise. 
  • Cross-Training Shoe – I’ve made the mistake many times of doing aerobics and weight-lifting in a running sneaker, which just isn’t good for you! The Nike Air Bella’s are light-weight and comfortable trainers.
  • Running Shoe – If you’re also a runner though, I’d recommend packing your running shoes too. Maybe you’ll be luckier than I and could find a one-shoe-fits-all for you though! I’ve worn Brooks Ghost sneakers for many years now and I’ve been quite happy with them. 
  • Travel Yoga Mat – I always wanted the ability to be able to stretch anytime, anywhere, which led me to research travel-sized yoga mats. The Plyopic Travel Yoga Mat is both lightweight, eco-friendly, and foldable so that you can bring it wherever you need. 

Reading Essentials

Beach reads are always necessary. Sometimes it’s nice to get lost in a good story and enjoy a book with a view. While I could individually summarize these books, I think it’s best if you check them out yourself to see which one is best for you 🙂 Here are some of my favorite travel books –

girl sits on bench reading her kindle in front of the mountains

It may not be the beach, but I thought it was a great spot to read!

  • Love with a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
  • What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman
  • Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
  • Wild by Cheryl Strayed
  • On the Road by Jack Kerouac
  • In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
  • Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
  • Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
  • Drink, Play, F@#k by Bob Sullivan
  • The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

If you feel like being slightly more intellectual on your vacation, I highly recommend these excellent entrepreneur books:

  • Expert Secrets by Russel Brunson (#1 recommended biz book!)
  • DotCom Secrets by Russel Brunson
  • 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class by Steve Siebold
  • How to Make Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  • The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson
  • Ca$hvertising by Drew Eric Whitman

Business Management Essentials

More and more frequently you will find people on the road who have the freedom to work remotely. If you are a business owner, or wannabe business owner, these are my absolutely necessary softwares and systems needed to keep my business running online, even when I’m not in front of my computer. Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean that you need to stop making money 🙂

girl works on laptop at the beach

Working remotely on the beach in Australia

  • ClickFunnels – Whether you run an online business or you’re looking to become a digital nomad, ClickFunnels is an absolute must! This software helps you great the highest converting sales funnels amongst many, many other incredible features. They offer a free Affiliate Bootcamp that I highly recommend going through if you’re new to the online space. If you aren’t new to working online, and haven’t checked out ClickFunnels though, you can grab your free trial here. Email me if you do, and I will share with you my top converting sales funnel.  
  • GetResponse – Email marketing is key to success. No matter what business you’re in, you need the ability to directly reach out to your followers or consumers without every having to think about social media algorithms. Through email marketing you can get your audience to know, like, and trust you… and ultimately buy from you. And the beauty of this is that if you’re on a trip, you can set up an email autoresponder series to continually bring in sales without you having to even open up your computer! GetResponse is free for under 1,000 email contacts, and have incredibly reasonable rates after that given the service they provide. You can sign up for your free account here.  
  • BlueHost – Do you have a blog or website? It needs to be hosted somewhere to be kept safe! Your web host ensures that your site continues to run smoothly and backs up your site daily should anything go wrong; it’s your website’s safety shield. BlueHost offers incredibly low rates, and I’m able to give them to you for even lower. You can purchase your BlueHost web hosting for just $3.95/month here! 
  • ClickMagick – I personally never click on an “ugly” link – a link that has a ton of numbers and letters and seemingly goes on forever. ClickMagick allows you to turn those long ugly links into short, clean URLs using your domain name. You can grab your ClickMagick account here.
  • Later – If you’re wondering how people post to Instagram on the go or have beautifully crafted Instagram feeds, it’s likely because they use a tool to help them get organized. I first discovered Later last year and have used them ever since to help schedule, analyze, and organize my accounts. Because they’re an official partner of Instagram, you can craft your posts and then schedule them to be automatically posted to Instagram! And the best part is, it’s free! Set up your free account here. 
  • TailWind – If you understand the value of Pinterest for your business, TailWind is an absolute must. It allows you to easily schedule out your Pins and re-Pin from others in your niche. You can adjust your settings so that you auto-Pin throughout the day, without having to sit in front of your phone or computer the whole time! Pinterest is a huge driver of traffic to websites, so it’s important that you take advantage of its benefits. TailWind is also free, and you can claim your account here.  
  • LiveLeap – Are you someone who likes to go live on social media a lot, either to showcase what your business has to offer or to show off your latest vacation? LiveLeap allows you to live stream on Facebook across multiple pages, which can increase your views ten times more than without it! So if you stream on your business page, you can also connect it to your personal page and Facebook group so that your live video goes live on all of those pages at once. It’s a great way to expand your reach! You can set up your account here. 

I hope that this list of travel essentials didn’t overwhelm you! I obviously travel full-time and am always over-prepared, so you just need to pick and choose which of these items is most important for the type of trip that you are preparing for. I wish you the best of luck with packing… as I sure as heck know how much we BOTH need it! As you pack and prepare for your next trip, please let me know in the comments below if I missed any important travel essentials. 

girls sits on rocks with four penguins on her south africa vacation

I'll leave you with some penguins – and a great travel hat!

In the meantime, please ensure that you purchase travel insurance before you leave! Of all of these travel essentials, t ravel insurance is arguably the most important thing to have on hand (after your passports and visas). I’ve had to use my travel insurance multiple times on the road, even though I’m healthy. You never know when something might happen; take comfort in knowing that whether your flight gets cancelled or you wind up sick and in the hospital, you will be covered. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for all of you. You can get a free quote here.  

Pin “137 Travel Essentials” For Later!

travel essentials packing list

The only thing I would add is: a few zip lock bags. I’ve done a lot of travelling…roadtrips, backpacking in Europe, rail and air travel, and won’t go anywhere without them. You never know when something will start leaking, or you have leftover snacks, or need a waterproof place to stash your phone or pocket camera. They take no space at all, and never say “I told you so!” when you do need one.

Sarah Gallo

YES! Great tip! I always have them on me too 🙂

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

sarah gallo the five foot traveler

Hello World! I’m Sarah Gallo, The Five Foot Traveler, and I choose to dream out loud. After conquering a crippling fear of flying, I’ve developed an unquenchable passion for traveling. Since my newfound freedom, I have set foot on all seven continents, explored 114 countries, and continue to strive to live life to the fullest. Continue Reading…

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35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

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There’s something about traveling that is equal parts excitement and stress, especially when it comes time for you to bust out your suitcase and prepare to pack. What comes along with you can vary tremendously depending on the length of your trip and the occasion. Thankfully, the Cut Shop team has traveled far and wide, and has picked up a few tips, tricks, and essentials for packing well. Regardless of whether it’s a quick weekend escapade or a whole month abroad, here are the 39 best travel essentials worth taking along, listed according to the length of time spent away from home .

For Overnight Trips

Whether you’re only traveling ten minutes away for a staycation or venturing to a nearby city for a day, overnight trips can be just as challenging to pack for as longer ones. Our best tip is try to be strategic about stowing all the necessities in a larger tote ba g.

iMangoo Protective Cable Organizer Case

Keep all your chargers and cords organized and untangled in one place. This little case makes sure you can actually find what you are looking for, especially in the depths of a big bucket-shaped bag.

Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

The Nap Dress is comfortable enough for any road trip or train ride or even to sleep in. You really can’t go wrong — it’s like wearing your pajamas but still looking totally presentable. We particularly like the wrinkle-resistant navy dress for easy wear on the road.

Baggu Go Pouch Set

This three-pack of pouches might be one of The Cut Shop ream’s favorite purchases. Perfect for everyday use, the pouches are great for housing everything from makeup to dirty clothes to receipts. We always have one in our bags, no matter if we’re leaving the house for a night, an hour, or a whole week.

July Everyday Garment Tote

Perfect for event-specific travel, this tote doubles as a garment bag, protecting those special-occasion outfits. It has just enough space to also pack a pair of shoes you do not want to commute in.

Saie Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35 Sunscreen

One of the best tinted moisturizers out there, this option from Saie offers hydration and some SPF and will give you light coverage with a dewy glow. When you can’t bring your entire medicine cabinet, this is a great option that combines a bunch of products in a multistep routine.

HoodHealth Stainless Steel

Because hydration is always important, especially when you’re traveling.

Leeshine Ice Roller for Face and Eyes

Just because you’re not doing your skin-care routine in your bathroom at home doesn’t mean your skin should suffer. This ice rollers will fit perfectly in your toiletry bag and come in handy first thing in the morning.

Emi Jay Big Effing Clip

Sometimes on those quick trips, we push washing our hair an extra day (or three) so we can leave all our heat tools at home. With some dry shampoo and a cute hair claw , no one has to know.

Weekend Trips and Excursions

Whether you are heading out of town for a wedding, trying to get away for a little R&R, or traveling for work, when it comes to packing a weekender or a smaller suitcase, organization is key.

Béis The Weekend Duffel Bag

There are so many options out there for weekender bags, but this water-repellent tote from Béis ticks all our boxes including the trolley pass-through pocket to attach to your suitcase and save your shoulders. This one is just over $100.

Guanda Car Vent Phone Mount

Most of the time, travel is associated with flying, but whether by choice or not, sometimes the trip involves hours of car time. A phone mount changes the game on a long road trip and is definitely safer.

Comrad Nylon Knee High Socks

For those longer flights where you are in a confined space and not moving around as much (looking at you, window-seat fliers), compression socks can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the legs and feet.

Loop Quiet Earbuds

Weekend trips can sometimes mean a jam-packed itinerary, so when you want to sleep, you want to snooze uninterrupted. Enter Loop, a reusable silicone earplug that allows you to get the ultimate fit (it comes in four sizes) so you can get in that power nap.

Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses

Forgetting your sunglasses on vacation, especially when headed somewhere sunny, is a rookie mistake, which is why this pair from Le Specs is perfect to just keep in your weekend bag so you are never without.. They’re stylish, sturdy, and under $70 , in case you end up losing or breaking them.

Cadence Build Your 6 Bundle

Normally, travel containers are not the most stylish or multifunctional. But these Cadence capsules are both of those things. Unlike traditional travel containers, these can be used for anything from storing pills and skincare products to necklaces and hand cream. Plus, you can design your own set to include different labels and colors

Everlane the Relaxed Oxford Shirt

You can never go wrong with a classic button-up . It’s a must-have for any trip, especially a weekend one when space is limited. Wear it on its own, with a dress or pants, or as a bathing suit cover-up.

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

The Tower28 spray is our skin-care savior , and if you’re looking to pack minimally for weekend trips, this needs to be in the toiletry bag. Perfect for sensitive skin, it’s multifunctional, and a spritz delivers a refreshing dose of hydration and soothes stressed-out skin.

Kindle Paperwhite

Not only do books take up valuable real estate in a carry-on, they add a bit of weight too. A Kindle is so low profile and light that we do not even think twice about tossing it in our bag. It also saves us time doing the math on how many books we should be bringing on a trip because our next read is just a Wi-Fi connection away.

Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

A full-fledged trip that still limits you to a carry-on may be the most difficult to pack for. Europe,Cabo, our parents’ house, it’s all about making the most of the room you have, even if you can’t help but pack all your sunglasses , expensive skin care, and cute outfits.

Reformation Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan

This cashmere cardigan is amazing on its own or as a layering piece in case you get chilly en route or in your hotel room. When you’re packing a carry-on, the more pieces you have that you can wear multiple different ways, the better.

Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case

Sometimes you just can’t decide which sunglasses to bring, especially if you are going somewhere extra-sunny. This protective case from Dagne Dover allows you to bring three pairs in a very compact and convenient case that is easy to hang up when you get to your final destination.

Away Bigger Carry-On

There is a reason you can’t travel without seeing one of these suitcases. It fits in the overhead bin of most major U.S. airlines and allows travelers enough room to store all their belongings while remaining light, sturdy, and sleek. Plus, it comes in seven attractive colors and has a USB external battery for those extra-long travel days. It is an essential for the majority of trips you will probably take.

Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set

We love using packing cubes when we need to keep a duffel bag from becoming total chaos or for just staying organized when we’re traveling somewhere where we will be doing a wide range of activities that require very different wardrobe options. These packing cubes from Calpak are cute and will help bring some order to a carry-on.

Aesop Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash

Whether you are in the window seat and do not want to disturb your neighbors to wash your hands or need to do a quick clean after pumping gas on a road trip, having some sort of hand sanitizer while traveling is a good idea. This one from Aesop obviously smells amazing.

Baggu Packable Sun Hat

Senior writer Sangeeta Singh-Kurtz swears by bringing this foldable sun hat no matter the amount of time you plan to spend in the sun. It packs up so small, it’s easily justifiable to toss in your bag. If nothing else, it’s cute for a photo op or two.

Two Weeks or Longer

Uniqlo Wide-Fit Pleated Pants

Wearing trousers on a plane not only saves room in your suitcase but also makes you feel more put-together on the go. These comfy but tailored pants from Uniqlo can be worn casually or dressed up, making them the perfect pair to travel in for long periods.

Merit Flush Balm Cream Blush

A two-in-one product that is perfect for face and lips is a godsend on the road, and this Merit lightly tinted balm is highly rated. It is the perfect product to throw in your bag for when you want to do a real quick touch-up, no matter where you are. Not to mention it’s one of our senior shopping editor’s favorite cream blushes .

Rimowa Classic Check-In L

The pinnacle of traveling well comes down to one word: Rimowa. The cases are classic, luxurious, and durable, though definitely a splurge. If you’re traveling for long stretches of time, and often, they can be worth the price point.

Wild One Travel Carrier

Pets under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, and this stylish option from Wild One opens into a bed so your pet can relax at the gate before you both board.

4PCS Refillable Travel Perfume Spray Bottles

Most fragrances do not come in a three-ounce bottle, and it can be quite a risk to send a glass bottle in your checked bag, so it might be safer to opt for something like this. Even when you are not traveling, these little cases are convenient to throw in a bag so that you always can carry around your favorite scent.

A Month or More

We’re way past suggesting hand cream and new luggage because, at this point, you’re practically moving to your destination. These are the things that upgrade you from a casual traveler to a pro and will make your longer flights and longer stays more comfortable

Bearaby Travel Napper

Carrying an extra six pounds might seem a bit excessive, but if you’re on a long flight and you’re staying over a month in your new destination, you might as well be as cozy and comfortable as possible. This travel0size weighted blanket from Bearaby comes in its own duffel bag, so it can easily be your personal item or be checked in with no problem.

FunTouch Rechargeable Travel Makeup Vanity Mirror

Want to be able to still do full glam while you’re away? This rechargeable and slim travel vanity mirror will help your makeup look flawless no matter your lighting situation.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

You may have seen this on your TikTok FYP. It allows you to connect your Bluetooth headphones (hello, AirPod Maxes ) to airplane screens, so you can watch your favorite comfort movie or episode of Sex and the City without worrying about bringing a corded pair or needing to purchase those cheap plane headphones in the air.

Saatva Weighted Silk Eye Mask

Like a weighted blanket for your eyes, this eye mask is sleep enhancing (perfect for long flights and jumping through timezones) and made from super soft silk.

Tumi Just In Case Tote

Chances you’ll come back from vacation with more clothes than you went there with are high, so consider packing this foldable nylon tote to hold all your overstock.

Mejuri Travel Case

Travel with ease knowing that your necklaces won’t get tangled and all your earrings are safe and sound in one place.

Daily Pill Organizer

This pill case also came from our TikTok FYP and is small enough to fit in any purse, but has enough storage to hold all your medicine, vitamins, and supplements.

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Editor’s Picks

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best travel essentials 2024

33 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack—No Matter What

An Esquire-approved packing list for every type of adventure.

Thus, commences the ultimate task of vacation packing, where you realize that your suitcase must consist of more than just shorts and little else. And regardless of the type of trip, there are some suitcase staples that shouldn't go amiss. From the classic weekender to post-flight skincare , there is so much that goes into every detail from getting from point A to point B.

DNA Hoodie

Best Travel Hoodie

Pangaia dna hoodie.

Camberwell Credit Card Slip

Best Travel Wallet

Mulberry camberwell credit card slip.

QuietComfort Headphones

Best Noise-Cancelling Travel Headphones

Bose quietcomfort headphones.

990v4 Sneakers

Best Travel Sneakers

New balance 990v4 sneakers.

Passport Holder & Luggage Tags Set

Best Travel Accessories Set

Quince passport holder & luggage tags set.

Everyday Compression Socks

Best Travel Compression Socks

Bombas everyday compression socks.

Compressible Packing Cubes

Best Travel Packing Cubes

Monos compressible packing cubes.

Toiletry Bag

Best Travel Toiletry Bag

Briggs & riley toiletry bag.

Casa Pop-Up Desk

Best Work-From-Anywhere Travel Desk

Logitech casa pop-up desk.

Utilitech Carpenter Pant Straight Leg

Best Travel Pants

Lululemon utilitech carpenter pant straight leg.

You know that feeling that you're forgetting something? Well, eradicate that and commence travel with the reassurance that everything you need is right with you. So kick back, relax, and watch some crusty in-flight entertainment. Book your vacation and take a look at this packing list that you can finally rely on. Trust me, never ever leave home without checking these items off your list

We love a classic cotton hoodie, and this heavyweight one from Pangaia is a pure winner for warmth and comfort. Wear it on the plane, when you're exploring the options are endless.

Mulberry's leather is quality that we stand by. The slip card design comfortably fits everything you need and makes cards easily accessible to get through the TSA checkpoint and pay for the overpriced water without a hitch.

We're big proponents of noise-cancelling headphones for pretty much all things that require either a deep inner focus or a hard distance from the world outside. Bose's QuietComfort headphones silence the world (crying babies, crunching plane neighbors) around you.

Sometimes you just need to get there, and these sneakers will do the trick. And when you do get there, go stretch your weary plane legs on a long walk without having to change shoes.

Quince Passport Holder & Luggage Tags Set

Matching travel accessories are a small but mighty upgrade that make getting yourself together for traveling a little smoother. This RFID-blocking passport holder and luggage tag set ensure you know what you're looking for when digging in your bag.

These socks will reduce any swelling or numbness after a long flight, or a short one for that matter. Compression socks are your new favorite travel companion. These have a daily-use approved 15-20mmHg pressure.

If you haven't gotten on the packing cube wave yet, it's time. Keep your luggage from becoming a black hole of stuff with these little rectangles that keep your categories together neatly.

Briggs & Riley Toiletry Bag

Also good at keeping your stuff together: a good toiletry bag. Get a nice one that fits all of your travel-sized grooming things comfortably and you'll be set for a long time to come.

Working on the go sucks a little bit less when you aren't uncomfortably hunched over your laptop. Logitech's pop-up desk has a riser, keyboard, and track pad for making even a tiny space a little easier to work in.

Airplanes are meant for athleisure, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. These stretchy cotton-blend pants will make the hours of travel so much more bearable.

Alo Yoga Scholar Cardigan Sweater

Scholar Cardigan Sweater

A plane hoodie is great, but an open sweater can be even better if you tend to radically change temperatures throughout your travels. Good for layering up, leaving open, and wearing on the trip as well as the trek.

Patagonia Nano Puff Fitz Roy Trout Hoody

Nano Puff Fitz Roy Trout Hoody

A packable Patagonia jacket is one of travel's biggest upgrades. It's super warm, and makes for an excellent extra layer—especially when you're not sure what you'll need. It packs into a little cube, which can double as a travel pillow.

Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case

Remi Glasses Case

Those flexible glasses cases are fine day to day, but on a longer trip, something with more protection is in order. Pack your reading glasses and go-to sunglasses in a secure spot.

Tommy John Air Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (3-Pack)

Air Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (3-Pack)

This underwear is designed for being on-the-go and constantly in motion. Breathable and lightweight, it's made for long flights or road trips.

Caraa Remus

Remus

Caraa's Remus duffle bag fits a whole life and more inside of. There are smart compartments on the outside and on the inside, and the space for stuff in between is excellent. This is great for bringing packed lightly on the way there and packed heavy with souvenirs on the way home.

Vuori Tuvalu T-Shirt

Tuvalu T-Shirt

If there's one life tip to take away here it's that traveling in a workout T-shirt is the only way to go. They are designed to be sweat-wicking and not hang onto sweat, which is perhaps something your plane neighbors will thank you for more than anyone.

Kiehl's On-the-Go Essentials Set

On-the-Go Essentials Set

Get all your Kiehl's stuff to go with a whole set of skincare in a mini size.

Davek The Mini

The Mini

Tiny and adorable, this will save you from some unexpected weather. The micro design tucks away perfectly into your suitcase.

Twelve South AirFly

AirFly

Twelve South finally solved the ongoing conundrum of wanting to watch an airplane movie but only having Bluetooth headphones. This little guy makes that headphone-to-plane-TV connection for you.

Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

This lotion is the only thing keeping us safe under any sort of UV index. It's small in size and easy to put on. No reason not to bring it on every trip.

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Collage of water bottle, sunglasses, headphones, 18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

  • 1 Wallet and passport holder
  • 2 Phone charger and adapter
  • 3 Reusable water bottle
  • 4 Hand sanitizer
  • 5 Skincare products
  • 7 Travel journal and pen
  • 8 Walking shoes
  • 10 Sunglasses
  • 11 Headphones
  • 12 Weather-dependent items
  • 13 Travel pillow
  • 14 Toiletry bag
  • 15 First aid kit
  • 16 Travel wrap or scarf
  • 17 Book or e-reader
  • 18 Lip balm

18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

Once your outfits have been planned and packed, it's time to focus on the things —particularly those items you absolutely can't forget. Consider this your go-to checklist for any trip.

Style + Travel Editor | Instagram @jackiehoman | jackiehoman.com

See recent posts by Jackie Homan

Krosslon Travel Passport Wallet

Wallet and passport holder

You won’t get very far without your wallet, and same goes for your passport on international trips. If you’re prone to losing things, purchase a wallet-passport holder combo to keep them close. We like this affordable and travel-friendly pick from Amazon, which has slots for your cards, cash, passport, tickets, boarding pass, and more, plus a convenient wristlet strap.

Phone charger and adapter

Phone charger and adapter

A phone charger is a must for any trip, and if you’re leaving the U.S., so is an adapter. This one from Flight 001 (available on Amazon ) is color-coded and works in over 150 countries.

Reusable water bottle

Reusable water bottle

Avoid spending money on plastic water bottles at every stop by bringing along a reusable one. With the fold-up capabilities of the Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle , you won’t even know it’s there.

RELATED:   What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

travel essentials pics

Hand sanitizer

Say goodbye to the all-too-common post-trip cold by keeping hand sanitizer on you at all times. GoodSense is a classic and easy go-to that we suggest for any adventure.

Skincare product travel bottles

Skincare products

Vacation is no excuse to forgo your skin care routine—in fact, you’ll want to keep it up even better to avoid breakouts and flare-ups caused by flights and new climates. If you’re committed to the products you already own, pack them in these leakproof silicone travel bottles from Amazon. Or, if you’re game to try something new, how about picking out a travel-sized set like Drunk Elephant’s The Littles ?

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Compact Digital Camera

Create long-lasting vacation memories by snapping better captures along the way (if you’re like us, your iPhone camera roll gets way too clogged up with screenshots and food pics). The  Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Compact Digital Camera ‘s slim design and light weight make it just right for travel.

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Travel journal and pen

Travel journal and pen

Keep your travel itineraries, checklists, and journal entries in one place with  I Was Here: A Travel Journal for the Curious Minded ,  which has plenty of space for all of your musings, plus colorful illustrations that pull together the pages. And don’t forget a pen !

travel essentials pics

Walking shoes

Even if you’ve already perfectly planned all the shoes to go with your outfits, throw in one extra pair of easy walking sneakers or flats, like Everlane’s The Day Glove . We promise you won’t regret it when your feet start to blister from your sandals or heels.

travel essentials pics

When you’re excited about what you’ll be wearing on days and nights out, it’s easy to forget something to wear in between. Bring along a lightweight pair of PJs, like these from Lunya, to keep cozy in the hotel.

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travel essentials pics

Spending lots of time outdoors? Be prepared with sunnies. We love this go-with-anything classic style from Ray-Bans.

Noise cancelling Headphones

You’ll want a heavy-duty pair of headphones for your flight, and we recommend these from Bose, which offer up to 15 hours of play time with a rechargeable battery and a wireless Bluetooth capability.

Travel umbrella

Weather-dependent items

Check the forecast before you go, and pack accordingly. The SY COMPACT Travel Umbrella is perfect for rainy travel, while this sunscreen is essential for the sunny days. Snow on the radar? Pack these winter accessories .

RELATED: 18 Shoes We’re LOVING for Summer 2019

Travel pillow and eye mask set

Travel pillow

If we’re talking airplane essentials, a travel pillow is at the top of our list (also great for train, bus, and car rides). With memory foam filling, a velour cover, and an ergonomic design, this one from Everlasting Comfort gets our pick. Plus, it comes with a sleeping mask and earplugs.

Travel Toiletry bag

Toiletry bag

Keep your toiletries organized with this hanging kit , which has plenty of room for all the necessities and more.

travel First aid kit

First aid kit

Safety first, Jetsetters! This mini first aid kit will equip you with everything you’ll need in case of emergency.

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Halogen Lightweight Cashmere Scarf

Travel wrap or scarf

Stay cozy on a cool flight with an oversized cashmere scarf, like this one from Halogen .

Amazon e-reader

Book or e-reader

We love books as much as the next guy, but when it comes to travel, an e-reader is really the best option. Lightweight and waterproof, the new Kindle Paperwhite keeps you ready to read wherever you are.

MARIO BADESCU Lip balm

It’s pretty much a given that a flight will dry out your skin, hair, and worst of all, lips. Prevent the chapped feeling with this ultra-hydrating lip balm from cult-favorite brand Mario Badescu.

Traveling? Consider These Luggage Options

Shop the look.

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Bigger Carry-On

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Ambeur 22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On

travel essentials pics

22-Inch Suitcase

travel essentials pics

Weekender Convertible

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Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

When considering what to pack for a trip, whether a long haul or a quick jaunt, things can get overwhelming quickly. There are matters of organization and there matters of essentials, all of which make your trip that much easier to bear. Here at Town & Country, we not only love to travel, but also love to shop for our trips—and as such have done quite a bit of research regarding what holds up, whether its wireless, sound cancelling ear buds or the comfiest cashmere throw. See here 20 of the best travel essentials that you simply shouldn't go on a trip without.

OSTRICH PILLOW GO Travel Pillow for Airplane Neck Support

GO Travel Pillow for Airplane Neck Support

This memory foam neck pillow is sleek, closes with velcro, and is easy to carry with a washable sleeve makes for the ultimate travel companion, whether by train, plane, or automobile. 

Away The Bigger Carry-On

The Bigger Carry-On

Away's suitcases are bestsellers for a reason. No only do their slightly bigger carry-on size bags hold practically a weeks worth of clothing and gadgets, but they also have a genius expansion capability in case you need to cram a bit more into your bag. Bonus: there's an incredibly Chillhousehandy mobile charger. 

BIS The Packing Cubes

The Packing Cubes

Packing squares can make the entire packing process more efficient—a simple compartmentalization invention that makes things so easy, breezy, and organized, you'll wonder how you ever did without. 

ANTHROPOLOGIE Pippa Travel Wallet

Pippa Travel Wallet

Keep all of your travel documents in one central location with a travel wallet that holds cash, cards, and your passport too. 

Lano Face Base Aussie Flyer Mask

Face Base Aussie Flyer Mask

If you're in for a long-haul flight, Lano's Flyer Mask will keep your skin hydrated, comfortable, and ensure that you are glowing when you land.  

this works in transit pollution shield

in transit pollution shield

A good face mist will keep you alert and perky whether you are driving or sitting for a long transatlantic flight. Trust: aloe and hyaluronic acid feels like a dream when you've been cooped up for a few hours. 

Slip Silk Sleepmask

Silk Sleepmask

Ditch the airline eye mask for one that is slightly more... luxe, shall we say? Slip's aren't just soft, they're big enough to actually ensure your environment is blacked out, and gentle enough that you don't wake up with lines all over your face. 

Primera Clean Berry Lip Mask

Clean Berry Lip Mask

A good lip balm will go a long way. And the humectants in this lip mask ensure that your lips stay comfy whether you're in the sky or already landed. Plus: it's matte so it's great for your male counterparts, too. 

DEET-Free Repellent Golden Hour

Golden Hour

Bug spray. You never think to bring it, always end up wishing you had. Kinfield's isn't just Deet-free, but pthalate and sulfate free, too. 

iTecFree Wireless Earbuds Stereo Bluetooth Headphones with Charging Case

Wireless Earbuds Stereo Bluetooth Headphones with Charging Case

Earbuds are crucial. Compact for convenience, but it's the noise canceling aspect that will come in handy. Trust us.

Luxtude 5000mAh Ultra Slim Portable Phone Charger

Luxtude 5000mAh Ultra Slim Portable Phone Charger

A portable charger is useful all of the time, but especially when traveling. You never know when you may need a little extra juice. 

RAMPOW Micro USB Cable Android

RAMPOW Micro USB Cable Android

Much like a portable charger, an extra USB cable (that just so happens to be extra long) will come in handy more often than you'd expect.

White + Warren Travel Cashmere Wrap

Travel Cashmere Wrap

The best accessory you could ever travel with is a cashmere wrap. Throw it on in the airport to look more put together, use it as a comfy blanket in flight. 

Amazon Kindle

Kindle

Print isn't dead—but for the sake of you back leave the hardcover books at home, especially if you want to read multiple selections over your break. Opt for a compact kindle instead. 

State Bags Crosby Fanny Pack

Crosby Fanny Pack

Take in the sights without having to carry a ton. Newsflash: fannypacks are acceptable again. All you need is a really sleek and chic one. You'll question why you ever made fun of them in the first place. 

Sky Roam Global WiFi

Global WiFi

When traveling to ultra-remote regions of the world, WiFi could be an issue. That's where a portable WiFi hotspot comes in. 

que Factory que Collapsible Water Bottle

que Collapsible Water Bottle

You never know when you might get thirsty, but toting around a large water bottle can be cumbersome. That said, single-use plastic is to be avoided in an ideal world. So, what's a traveler to do? Enter your collapsable water bottle. 

POOL BLUE SHAVE SET

POOL BLUE SHAVE SET

Flamingo's shave set gives you everything you need to make sure your stems are groomed while you are away, from a mini shaving cream, to a razor, and even moisturizer too. 

First Aid Travel Kit

First Aid Travel Kit

You never know when disaster may strike during your travels. Welly's Human Repair Kit has everything you need to disinfect and keep any bumps and scratches clean and well on their way to healing.

Softwear Women’s Hoodie Forest

Women’s Hoodie Forest

A good travel tracksuit will never fail you—it's 2019's airport fashion essential. Softwear is known for their ethically-made, flattering and oh-so soft trackies that you will want in every color, but particularly this sophisticated forest green. 

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As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel. 

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Girl With The Passport

25 Travel Essentials for Women

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: June 11, 2023

Categories Travel Tips

Why the list of travel essentials for women?

If you read this blog at all then you know that it’s dripping with adolescent humor that stems from the insane number of travel mistakes that I make, like my most recent debacle at an Airbnb in Naples, Italy.

Upon some not so deep reflection about my list of must have, international travel essentials, I quickly realized that to compile this list of essential items for travelers, I would need some expert advice.

That’s why:

I asked some of the travel bloggers that I love, trust, and admire to share their nominations for travel necessities that they just can’t live without!

And added bonus ?

Some of these products are totally free, like some of the travel apps!

Yup, free is my favorite word.

So even if you’re broke like a joke, you can still travel like a total boss.

So take a peek, and add some of these essential travel products to your list of the best gifts for friends going abroad.

Because here at Girl with the Passport:

I’m all about reading a blog post and getting some Amazon shopping done since that’s the type of multi-tasking I do.

That and buying useless products on Amazon while lifting a spoonful of ice cream to my mouth.

Yes, it’s a difficult life I lead.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

1. SIGG THERMOS 0.5L CLASSIC MUG

By: Becky of Becky the Traveller (Check out her blog on Instagram and Facebook )

Siggs Thermos is one of the top travel essentials for women who like the outdoors.

One of my favorite, essential travel accesories is my Sigg Hot and Cold flask , especially if you’re looking for amazing must-have road trip accessories.  

I’ve had it almost a year now and it comes on all of my trips with me, especially if I’m planning to visit your local national parks .

Why do I love it?

Well, I enjoy hiking and it’s the perfect flask for big or small hiking trips.

You can drink directly from the flask, which means no messing around with balancing cups on rocks, something that was extremely helpful during my UK Hiking trip which included climbing the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis in Scotland .

The weather at the top can certainly be unpredictable and a lovely warm drink is exactly what I needed.

The Sigg Hot and Cold can also be used for trips through colder countries too.

It was fantastic during my trip to Iceland, a lovely warm drink while hiking on a glacier was perfect ( book your trip here) .

The flask costs £22.95/ $29.95 for the 0.5 l version, with other sizes available too.

It may seem expensive for a flask, but you’ll quickly earn your money back when you don’t need to buy hot drinks while you travel.

And if you want to see some amazing wildlife while you’re hiking, you can also pack some of the best travel binoculars on the market today.  

2. Portable Charger

By Christine of the Dime Travelers (Check her blog out on Instagram and Facebook )

Portable chargers are the ultimate travel essential.

Ever been lost in a new city where you don’t speak the language and your cell phone has died and there is no way of recharging it?

You can completely avoid this horrible situation with the help of a portable charger, an essential addition to any travel packing list!

It’s also compact and easily fits in your carry on (mine is approximately the same size as my cell phone).

Just bring your cell phone charger (with a USB extension) and you’ll be able to charge your cell anywhere!

Portable chargers also come with different features, such as waterproof, shockproof, dustproof or even some that are solar powered or have more than one USB port to charge multiple devices at the same time!

Its versatility makes it the perfect companion for exploring cities, hiking in the wilderness, or spending the day on the water!

Starting at $15 (with higher prices depending on the specific features):

This is a handy travel gadget that is also one of the most affordable products for travelers!

3. Google Maps

By: Penny Fernandes of GlobeTrove (Check her blog out on Facebook and Twitter )

I have always been directionally challenged.

Reading a map was one of the biggest challenges that I faced while traveling.

That was until I discovered that tiny blue dot on Google maps that told me exactly where I am!!!

The next revelation I had was that it would tell me which direction I should walk in.

Getting lost got even more difficult once I figured out how to navigate using the maps directions.

As time passed:

I began to use Google Maps more I learned how to plan our trips.

I just place pins at all the interesting locations in the country I want to visit and then Shawn just takes my star-studded map and creates a travel route that covers every destination on the list.

I also drop pins at locations I have already visited, like my hotel. This way, when you’re taking a taxi or a tuk-tuk, you can just input the directions to your desired location and see if the driver is going in the right direction!

An easy way to make sure that you aren’t being overcharged.

4. Rooftop Tent (One of the many travel essentials for girls who like camping)

By: Emily Scott of Two Dusty Travelers (Check her out on Instagram and Facebook )

Camping is so much easier with a nifty, roof top tent like this!

I’ll be honest:

I LOVE the outdoors, but I don’t love assembling a tent and sleeping on the cold, hard ground. Even if it is the best six-person tent ever.  Yeah, it can be a struggle trying to figure out how to make your tent more comfortable . 

I finally invested in a Yakima Skyrise rooftop tent after eyeing one for months.

And truthfully?

It has completely changed my travel life for the better!

With my hotel/campsite on the roof of my car, I can take spontaneous trips without worrying about where I’m staying or fitting everything into a backpack.

I just find a spot with a view, unfold the tent, and I’m all set!

It literally takes two minutes to set up.

The thick foam mattress is also super comfy so I can just fall asleep while gazing up at the stars through the skylight.

I waited to buy one because of the hefty price tag (my medium-size tent cost me $879’20) but it was 100% worth the investment!

Nowadays, thanks to my beloved rooftop tent:

I’m camping more than ever and planning some epic summer road trips through all the national parks in the Western United States.

***If you’re camping, or just traveling in general, you can also add a headlamp to your list of best travel essentials since it helps you dig around your bag in the dark (without waking everyone in your hostel dorm room up), or can be used as your own, personal flashlight when walking around in the evening.***

5. Hopper Phone App

By: Hayley Hornberg of International Hot Dish (Check her out on Instagram and Twitter )

Hopper is the best FREE app for tracking flight prices!

I discovered it last year and have been using it obsessively ever since.

As a frequent flyer:

I love it because it makes planning a vacation so much simpler.

Not only is this travel app is easy to use but it tells you exactly when to book your flight for the best price and provides specific price drop predictions by date.

With Hopper:

All you have to do is put in your flight parameters and the app does the rest.

Hopper will then tell you to either book your flight now or wait.

If the app suggests waiting:

It’ll show you the lowest possible ticket price and the exact date at which the price will begin to rise.

How amazing is that?

Using this app has definitely saved us money so it is a must-have app for anyone who books flights.

You can download it for free for both iPhone and Android devices.

6. Ferry Hopper Phone App

Ferryhopper will help you find your next ferry trip! You can compare ferry companies & prices, and book cheap ferry tickets with no hidden fees in one go!

Easy and friendly!

Plus, you can book your ferry ticket within minutes. The concept may not seem groundbreaking at all – and quite frankly, it isn’t.

Other travel sites have been doing it for years, right?

But there’s one more thing: Ferryhopper is also the first –and only– booking platform that presents you with all direct and all available indirect connections and routes to other destinations in an island breeze.

7. Panasonic Lumix G85 (with a 14-140mm Lumix travel zoom lens)

By: Maura of Camera and Canvas (Check her blog out on Facebook and Instagram )

The Panasonic Lumix G85 (with a 14-140mm Lumix travel zoom lens) is a great camera for any traveler.

This year I upgraded my camera, after extensively researching all of the best cameras for travel photography.

I didn’t want a big DSLR since they take up way too much room in my bag.

I just wanted something that would take better quality photos than my pocket-sized point & shoot.

So after testing a bunch of cameras:

I finally settled on the Panasonic Lumix G85, with a 14-140mm Lumix travel zoom lens.

It’s a mirrorless, Micro Four Thirds camera, so it has a smaller sensor that is still big enough to produce really high-quality photos!

Even though the lenses are small, they still a lot more reach with zoom lenses!

Not only can I get a decent wide-angle shot but I can also zoom in on a bird or cute animal with the 14-140mm lens.

So convenient since I don’t have to switch lenses for 90% of my photos!

It’s the closest thing to a “one size fits all” lens that I’ve found.

The  Lumix G85 may look like a DSLR, but it’s still on the smaller side (and if you want to go even small, it has a sister model, GX85).

But before you buy ANY camera:

Go to a store and try out different models to see which one feels the best in your hands!

Also be sure to invest in a nice crossbody camera strap with a padded shoulder.

travel essentials pics

Those dinky straps that come with your camera are so uncomfortable so a good strap (and camera bag) is a must!

***Other camera essentials include a tripod, a selfie stick, a camera bag, spare batteries, extra memory cards, and any type of lens you may need (I usually pack a zoom and wide-angle lens).***

By: Jamie Joyner of Photo Jeepers (Check her blog out on Facebook  and Instagram )

travel essentials pics

My husband and I are travel photographers who spend a lot of time outdoors and in the elements.

For a long time:

We struggled to find a product that was easy to wear, breathable, and that whisks away moisture.

That is until we found Buff headwear which is multifunctional and can be worn in a variety of ways (as a hat, ear warmer, neckband, hair band, and so much more).

My husband is a very fair-skinned man who shaves his head, so sun protection is a must.

He uses one band as a hat and a second around his neck.

But even if you’re not traveling in warm-weather:

Buffs can also help protect you against the cold and biting insects.

I use mine to keep my hair out of my face or to cover my ears when it’s cold.

They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials with prices between $12 and $30.

9. Trail Wallet App

By: Amanda of La Vida Viva  (Check her blog out on Facebook and Instagram)

The trail wallet app is a great way to stay on budget while traveling.

Trail Wallet is my absolute must-have app for traveling.

Created by travelers:

This app carefully monitors everything that a traveler needs to know about their spending.

As someone who travels long term and through many different countries, sticking to a budget and tracking expenditures in various currencies can be tough.

That is until I found this app which is super easy to use and allows me to create different trips, set up a daily budget, and categorize where I am spending my money.

For every trip I take:

I just input all the applicable currencies, as well as my home currency, so that I can see how much I’ve spent in Aussie dollars (which is particularly helpful when you’re paying for things in local currencies and then booking tours for in USD).

The app can also be accessed offline so you can even export your spending to a spreadsheet for better budgeting.

It’s an absolute travel must-have for anyone who wants to properly track their spending.

Trail Wallet is also free for the first twenty-five items and then costs an additional $7.99AUD for tracking an unlimited number of items.

It’s seriously the best money I’ve ever spent on an app and I don’t know how I ever survived without it.

10. Backpack with Wheels

By: Chantal of Alleen Op Reis  (Check her out on Instagram and Facebook)

A backpack with wheels makes for the perfect carry on bag.

When I started planning my year-long trip around the world:

I decided I needed one of the best hiking backpacks for women . During a visit to an outdoor store in search of the perfect backpack, I found the best-wheeled backpack for travel.

Not just a duffel bag but a proper backpack with sturdy straps that can be carried or rolled around.

I’d never even seen a bag like this before but since my neck and shoulders get sore easily, I was immediately drawn to it.

The only drawback?

This Osprey Meridian isn’t exactly cheap, at $350 a bag!

I’ve been traveling with this backpack for four years now and it’s still in great shape and one of the best-wheeled backpacks for travel.

So yeah, it was worth the investment since I think its one of the best travel backpacks with wheels  out there (don’t worry there are cheaper alternatives with wheels too).

I’ll wheel the bag around most of the time and then the few times that I can’t use the wheels, like at the beach, I’ll just unzip the back, pull out the straps, and carry it on my back.

But the best feature?

It has a daypack that you can attach to it, making travel around the world a lot more fun and a whole lot easier.

***If you want, you can also use some packing cubes since they organize your clothes and save space by compressing everything you pack.***

11. Inflatable Unicorn

By: Jennifer Riley of the Rainbow Route (Check her out on Facebook and Instagram )

This unicorn inflatable brings pure joy and happiness everywhere it goes.

There are all sorts of travel products out there that are designed to make your life on the road easier.

Sometimes, you just have to throw caution to the wind and buy a big, heavy, unicorn inflatable takes up almost an entire suitcase (because you have to pack an electric pump as well).

But you know what?

I would never consider a trip to the beach without my magical inflatable unicorn!

No, I wouldn’t take it backpacking across South America. But I do take it on camping trips or to Maui.

And if a relaxing float on the gentle ocean waves isn’t enough for you, it also makes a great bed for napping on at the beach.

I’ve even made anchors out of rocks and rope so that I can take a nap on the water without worrying about being swept out to sea.

And during our last trip to Maui:

We discovered this magical beast can even surf! It’s almost like riding a mechanical bull but on the water.

We’re talking serious amounts of fun.

Carrying a giant unicorn float down the beach is always an awesome conversation starter.

“Hello, stranger. Would you like to meet my unicorn?” HELLS YA!”

12. Original UNO Card Game

travel essentials pics

By: Ridima Mittal of Little Joys and More (Check her blog out on Facebook and Instagram )

UNO is one of those travel kit essentials that is a perfect diversion when you're bored and have nothing else to do.

UNO seems like a totally obvious way to have fun with friends and family either at home or at a picnic.

This game has also turned out to be my favorite travel accessory over the past years.

Be it those long, boring hours waiting for a delayed flight or a dull train ride with no spectacular views or even a long haul flight that never ends, UNO has always been there to keep us entertained.

Not only that but it’s also a great way to meet other travelers during our trips.

The best part about UNO Cards though is that they are sold everywhere.

They are also easy to pack and carry, making them a fun and efficient travel item that should be on everyone’s travel packing list.

13. OverBoard 5-Liter Waterproof Dry Tube Bag, Pink

travel essentials pics

By: Laura of the Traveling Stomach (Check her blog out on Instagram and Facebook )

The Overboard 5-Liter Waterproof Dry Tube bag is perfect for anyone who likes to travel by the water.

Being an avid diver and beach lover:

I’m always trying to keep my valuables safe, dry, and away from sand (those pesky grains cause havoc on electronics).

I was excited last year when I found the perfect solution, a dry bag!

These bags are specifically designed to keep your belongings dry, and not just from the rain. They can even withstand submersion in water for several minutes.

Originally:

I bought a large dry bag (15L) to keep my clothes and towel in during a diving trip. And I loved it so much that I bought a second smaller one (5L) that is perfect for valuables at the beach.

I no longer have to worry about where to put my camera and purse when I go for a dip because I can just take them with me!

They’re available in a wide range of colors and sizes, so you can pick the perfect size and color to match any outfit.

14. Lip Balm

By: Marie Eloise Enriquez of The Travelling Pinoys  (Check her out on Facebook  and Instagram )

Lip balm is one of the most fundamental, travel essentials for women.

Lip balm is one of the best travel products of ALL TIME!

It’s amazing since it keeps your lips hydrated all year round; especially during the winter when the air is dry and chapped lips are everyone’s worst enemy.

Lip balm also has amazing healing and protective properties that make your lips look and feel younger.

Honestly though:

I wasn’t a huge fan of lip balm until my first winter trip when my lips started to crack and burn while smiling for photos.

From then on:

I invested in a tube of lip balm and bring it with me everywhere. Plus, it’s less than $5 and a total lifesaver.

15. Hair Ties

By: Bernadette Jackson of A Packed Life (Check her out on Facebook and Instagram )

travel essentials pics

They usually arrive in threes, they cost less than $2, and they do way more than you’d imagine. 

You can find them at most drugstores, and sometimes you might even get lucky and get them for free.

I’m talking about those little, women’s hair ties, made from coiled plastic, that are available all over the world.

If you have long hair like me, those hair ties stop you from inhaling your own locks during those wild days at the beach or when you’re taking in scenic mountain top views. 

They’ve also stopped me from ripping my hair out on the velcro on a life jacket and have also kept my hair warmly snuggled inside my hat, while out in the snow.

But these little women’s travel essentials can also be used to attach your spare jacket to your bag or to corral that tangled mess of tech cables that seem to endlessly run riot through your house.

A total travel essential for women that must be added to your travel checklist.

16. GoToob+ or GoToob by HumanGear

By: Nie Nie of Adventures with Nie Nie  (Check her out on Facebook and Instagram )

travel essentials pics

My favorite travel product has to be the GoToob+ or GoToob by HumanGear!

Now if you haven’t tried this product before or haven’t heard of it then you need to buy it now.

You might be thinking, okay how is this any different from any other refillable shampoo, condition, or lotion bottle out there that holds all your travel beauty essentials?

What makes this travel must have so special is that not only are these bottles reusable but they are also squeezable.

Therefore :

You can get every last drop out of whatever product you’re using.

As a result:

You’re actually saving money and reducing plastic consumption at the same time.

Additionally:

These bottles have an innovative design that includes a wide mouth opening that makes the bottles easier to refill, a hook that allows you to hang the bottle in the shower (only available on GoToob+), a leak-proof design, and labels that you can customize yourself.

The perfect travel gadget for any woman on the go.

17. The Upwade USB Extension Cord

By: Melissa of the Family Voyage (Check her out on Instagram and Facebook )

We’re currently on a family gap year trip around the world.

So when we initially packed for our trip, we made quite a few mistakes , including bringing about three hundred different international plug adapters and USB plugs.

Needless to say:

We ended up either not having enough   outlets or not having the right type of adapter.

We ran into a number of problems with heavy, cumbersome chargers (looking at you, MacBook Pro) that hung precariously from loose plug adapters – raising concerns about safety and damage to our electronics.

During a wistful search on Amazon:

I came across a USB extension cord that solves so many of our problems.

Now, we only need one good-quality international plug adapter, the extension cord, and a cord for each device.

That’s because this extension cord comes with two US outlets and four USB plugs.

Therefore, we can simultaneously charge our iPhones, Amazon Fire tablets, a laptop, and a camera!

Such a great way to lighten our travel load as we continue our trip and travel to Southeast Asia.

18. Tropicfeel Travel Shoe

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“Getting blisters is such a joyful and intrinsically satisfying experience,” said no one ever.

You also don’t want a heinous pair of orthopedic, velcro sneakers that make you look like a total selfie stick-wielding, fanny pack toting tourist.

Now, do you?

Exactly! I so get it and am right there with you!

But, then what’s a girl to do?

Why, snag a sweet, sweet pair of  tropicfeel travel shoes of course! The ultimate cute and comfortable travel walking shoes !

Not only is this shoe perfect for men and women of all ages (talk about a cross-generational fashion icon), but they’re also comfy, come in a variety of different colors, have a wicked awesome grip that is perfect for hiking (I wore them while climbing over some wet rocks and didn’t slip once!) and can easily slip on and off (perfect for battling the perils of airport security ).

These shoes are so awesome that you don’t even have to untie them to take them on and off!

They have these nifty, almost bungy like laces that you can adjust by moving the stopper at the end of the lace, back and forth.

Talk about next-level convenience! One little FY though!

Tropicfeel Travel Shoes are actually a European brand and typically come in European sizes.

If you want to order a pair for yourself, be sure to look up what the equivalent is in US sizing first.

In my case:

I usually wear a size 8.5 and got the size 41 and they fit like a dream!

But wait…because these shoes get EVEN better!

I know, kind of impossible, but totally true since these shoes are also a 100% VEGAN shoe (made from recycled plastic), quick-drying, anti-odor, machine washable (just in case they get dirty), ultra-breathable, and super lightweight (like 7 ounces lightweight) too!

Yup! For real, for real!

And all this for just $100 a pair! Which I personally think is a total steal since this shoe basically makes any other shoe that I’ve ever owned totally obsolete!

19. Clothes (DUH! LOL Since no list of travel essentials for women would be complete without clothes. Unless you’re frequenting a nudist colony of course!)

Per usual, I’m gonna keep it totally real for you.

Rule number one for packing womens travel essentials is, DO NOT OVERPACK.

Under any circumstances.

Trust me, I’ve been there and it is 100% not worth it.

Because eventually:

You’ll get tired of lugging around a bunch of useless crap and end up throwing half of your stuff out, like that pair of sequence leg warmers that you just had to have (No really guys, leg warmers were gonna make a come back)!

But, that being said:

It can be hard determining what clothes are totally essential and what items, like that pink, tuile, ballerina skirt that looks TOTALLY fetch in all of your Instagram pics, should be left at home (Yeah, sorry but that skirt has GOT TO GO!). 

This list can vary depending on where you are in the world. 

If you’re traveling to places like Southeast Asia and India, where clothes are SUPER cheap, then no need to stress about having your entire wardrobe ready to go before your trip.

Say “Hello NO” to steep excess baggage fees (No they are no joke and can sometimes cost you more than your PLANE TICKET itself!) and just get what you need on the road.

At about $3-$6 USD item of clothing, you definitely won’t go broke while shopping on the road.

It’s yet another fab way to swan dive into the local culture and savor some of the local, textile flavor.

In other, more remote/expensive locations (Yup, I’m looking at you Europe and Oceania), it’s just way too expensive to buy everything you need on the road.

Here are some handy packing lists to help you figure out exactly what you need, and what you don’t when deciding what travel essentials for women will make the final cut.

Warm Weather Travel Essentials for Women 

  • 5–7 thin, neutral tank tops so that you can easily layer your clothes and mix and match with different bottoms
  • 2–3 pairs of shorts of varying lengths. Avoid denim in humid places since it retains odors and takes FOREVER to dry!
  • 2 long skirts or dresses for temples, churches, and any other place where you may need to dress a bit more conservatively and cover your knees! Plus, skirts are always WAY more breathable than pants!
  • 2–3 pairs of leggings (or whatever type of non-jean pants you like. But I’m a diehard leggings girl all the way!)
  • 1 Cardigan (Makes a great cover-up if you’re wearing a tank top and want to enter a temple)
  • 9 pairs of whatever underwear makes you feel like the most amazing version of yourself!
  • 2 pairs of light socks  (make them no show socks if you plan on wearing slip-on shoes)
  • 1 pair of hiking or running shoes (If you’re an outdoors lovin’ boss, then stick with the hiking boots)
  • 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals (I personally love Birkenstocks )
  • An enchanting hat to protect your face and make you look ISTA-FAB!
  • 1 Bathing Suit
  • 1 pair of sunglasses
  • Sunscreen/Bug Spray 
  • A Quick Dry, Microfiber Towel
  • 1 packable rainjacket or umbrella (Especially if you’re visiting a tropical destination during the rainy season)
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Sleep Clothes

Temperate Weather Travel Essentials for Women

  • 3–4  neutral tank tops for layering. 
  • 2–3 long-sleeved shirts that you can mix and match with different bottoms.
  • 2–3 neutral t-shirts
  • 2–3 dresses or long skirts
  • 1 pair of jeans or fleece-lined leggings
  • 2–3 pairs of shorts of different lengths
  • 1–2 pairs of leggings
  • 9 pairs of whatever underwear makes you feel like the BEST version of yourself.
  • 4 pairs of socks. They can be either sports socks or socks designed for hiking .
  • 1 pair of boots (I always wear these when traveling to the airport so that I can save space in my luggage. I also always wear Dr. Martens but that’s just me.)
  • 1 pair of  running shoes
  • 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals
  • 1 packable rain jacket or umbrella 

Cold Weather Travel Essentials for Women

  • 3–4 long-sleeved shirts for layering
  • 2 thermal shirts
  • 1 Stylish Sweater Dress
  • 2–3 sweaters/sweatshirts 
  • 1 pair of dark jeans or thick pants
  • 2-3 pairs of fleece-lined leggings
  • 9 pairs of comfortable underwear
  • 7 pairs of waterproof socks
  • 1 Pair of High Snow Boots so the snow doesn’t get in through the top of your shoes (or waterproof boots if the weather is dry)
  • 1 Heavy Down Jacket that is waterproof (lighter winter jacket if it’s not frigid)
  • 1 pair of texting gloves
  • 1 winter hat

***Okay, I know I didn’t go into an in-depth explanation of each item on this list of female travel essentials. And that’s basically because this post is already LONG enough and I’m sure you have infinitely more exciting things to do with your time than sit here and read my blog (as lovely as that would be). So, if you’re looking for a more in-depth look at some of the best travel clothes for women, then check out this post right here!***

20. TOILETRIES

travel essentials pics

Okay, in truth:

Discussing the finer points of personal hygiene and toiletry packing isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a good time.

I also don’t want flies getting all up in my grill because I smell like a glorified garbage heap during vacay.

We definitely need to discuss toiletries, at least a little bit. This way, you won’t end up forgetting something ultra-important like a toothbrush.

General must-have, toiletry essentials include:

  • 1 hanging toiletry bag  (Perfect for crowded, hostel bathrooms)
  • Refillable travel bottles (For shampoo, conditioner, and face wash)
  • Conditioner
  • Face wash 
  • Facial moisturizer
  • Contacts, Contact Lens Solution, and Contact Lens Case
  • Birth control for the length of your trip (if you take it)
  • Travel first aid kit
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
  • Eyeglasses repair kit
  • Nail clippers
  • Makeup (1–2 palettes of eye shadow, 1 light powder foundation, bronzer, 2-3 application brushes, lip gloss, eyeliner, and mascara.)
  • Hairbrush and Hair ties
  • Sanitary Products

Throw in some bug spray and sunscreen while you’re at it since those may come in extremely handy, depending on where you’re traveling.

If you do have a momentary brain fart and forget something incredibly important, no need for a Titanic size meltdown.

Because trust me:

Most of these products can be found in plentiful supply, no matter where you go in the world. 

There’s really no need to fret on the toiletry front, my travel-loving friend.

In terms of toiletry bags, I usually just throw all my shi…, I mean womens travel essentials into a ziplock bag since I’m far from anything closely resembling a Glamazon.

I recently decided to become a bit more organized and a bit less of a hot mess.

I bought that wonder of a toiletry bag pictured above!

And not gonna lie, I kind of sort of love it.

I mean, not only does it come with a durable hanging hook that makes everything SO much easier to find, but it also has a sturdy zipper, a breathable mesh pouch, a strong handle, and is large enough to carry everything I need (let the heavens open up and rejoice in jubilation).

Added bonus?

This epic toiletry bag of awesome costs just $16; a fantastic price tag since nobody out there wants to spend a small fortune on a bag that will only ever see the inside of a bathroom.

***SIDE NOTE ABOUT PRESCRIPTIONS: If you’re traveling with prescriptions, the ease of traveling with your medication will depend on what medication you take and how much you can carry with you at one time since every medication is different. That’s why, it’s best to talk with your doctor, and insurance provider, before your trip, just to get an idea of how much medication you can get before you leave and how you can best carry it with you across borders and into different countries. Also remember that in much of the world, doctors really aren’t THAT expensive, making it possible to get prescriptions filled while on the road.***

21. INFLATABLE NECK PILLOW

travel essentials pics

I HATE sleeping on planes since I am basically the worst sleeper ever and can never really sleep in anything other than an uber-plush bed.

I basically sit there, like a totally wide-awake creeper, who loves to watch other people sleep.

Just kidding! I’m really not THAT creepy.

But I am continually plagued by a perpetual case of insomnia.

By the end of any long-haul flight, I tend to resemble a zombie more than I do an actual human being who is about to live la vida loca on vacation (Okay I promise, after this, I’ll keep all Rocky Martin references to a minimum).

The one thing that makes the entire ordeal even remotely tolerable is a neck pillow.

And my pillow of choice?

Why the  inflatable daydreamer neck pillow of course.

Because no joke:

Whoever invented this little travel accessory miracle is a genius of the most EPIC proportions.

Not only does it give me the neck support that I need to sleep on a plane, but it’s also incredibly easy to pack since it occupies a fraction of the space that a normal neck pillow would.

But wait, because it does indeed get better!

See, this perpetual pillow of awesomeness has a velvety soft exterior and a built-in air pump that makes inflation super easy.

This little sleep-inducing wonder will help you get the rest that you need and all while taking up minimal space in your carry on.

If all else fails, you can always take some Melatonin (a natural, sleep-inducing vitamin) and get some of the best rest of your life!

22. Aviator Travel Jeans

These are the best women’s travel pants EVER and are the most comfortable travel jeans that I’ve ever worn!

I can now wear jeans on a plane, without getting a gross, jumbo size, muffin top, and actually feel comfortable.

I probably will never wear another pair of jeans again.

AND THEN THERE are THE POCKETS!

Don’t even get me started on the pockets. They are huge and deep, like the Grand Canyon level deep. And stylish too. And there are 5 of them! Yup, pockets for days!

When I wanna be all cheap and avoid baggage fees, I can just shove all my crap in my pockets and lighten up my luggage!

If only it was that easy to solve all of life’s problems.

These jeans are also SUPER high quality, so say goodbye to the days of heavy jeans that smell not so great after a while.

Say hello to the retail beauty that is durable, flexible, breathable and super comfortable jeans, like stretchy yoga pant level comfortable.

The only downside?

They are $110 a pair. Yeah,  don’t know about you but that is kind of steep for me.

They’re so comfortable and last so long that I feel like it’s an investment in a SUPER high-quality product.

If you go to their website and sign up for their email list, you get 15% off, which is not too shabby (you can add this to your  London packing list).

23. World Nomads Travel Insurance (Or SafetyWing Insurance for Long Term, Digital Nomads)

I am the queen of travel blunders and mishaps.

That’s why, when it comes to travel essentials for women, travel insurance is a must!

It would not be unlikely for me to literally plummet down the side of a mountain and whoops, end up in a body cast after a leisurely stroll through the woods.

So clearly, it’s a given that I always buy travel insurance.

But what is the best travel insurance out there?

Personally, I LOVE World Nomads Travel Insurance ! Sure, they’re a little on the expensive side but so what?

I mean, if you can’t afford travel insurance then you probably shouldn’t be traveling.

Especially since:

Insurance is one of those things that you don’t skimp on, kind of like a pregnancy test. You just can’t afford to be cheap when it really counts (trust me, I’ve tried about a billion different companies and they are the best).

But more importantly:

World Nomads travel insurance covers pretty much any destination you might want to visit (besides SUPER offbeat places like Pakistan is a good example), they give you an amazing level of coverage that includes any travel disaster possible, short of being impaled by a unicorn, it’s super easy to customize, and you can even extend or change your travel insurance policy while you’re on the road.

Amzing no? However, the real question is, what plan should you get?

Easy! If all your gear is worth less than $1000, get the basic plan.

If you’re a not-so-fancy travel blogger like me and your camera, laptop, tablet, and phone EASILY cost over a $1000, then the explorer plan is where it’s at (both offer emergency medical coverage of up to $100,000).

But…

What if you’re traveling the world long term, as a digital nomad, and you just can’t afford to pay for World Nomads travel insurance EVERY SINGLE MONTH?

Luckily for you, SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance is here to help!

Because just like many other brands of travel insurance:

Purchasing a policy from this amazing company means that you’ll be covered if you develop an unexpected illness or injury while you travel.

Accordingly:

All eligible hospital, doctor, and prescription drugs expenses will be covered if you happen to get ill, or injured, while you’re traveling (for a list of exclusions, please refer to their  Description of Coverage ).

SafetyWing also offers you comprehensive protection against various emergency, travel-related events like emergency medical evacuation, bedside visits, travel delay, lost checked luggage, trip interuption, political evacuation, personal liability, and more!

Pretty sweet right?  

But, “Why SafetyWing?”, I hear you rightfully wondering?

That is a totally understandable question since there are a TON of travel health insurance companies out there, and it’s hard to know which one will be right for you.

And one of the most amazing things about Safetywing is that it was created by digital nomads, FOR digital nomads.

Policies purchased through this company are not only inexpensive (Policies can cost as little as $37 per month for travelers age 18-39) and comprehensive, but SafetyWing also has an ongoing, automatic, monthly subscription service that makes it incredibly easy to maintain your insurance policy over a prolonged period of time (So say a fond farewell to continually reapplying for travel insurance every single month).

Just sign up once, and the company will automatically re-enroll you until you choose to discontinue your policy, or until you’ve had your policy for a full calendar year.

And that’s just some of what SafetyWing offers (Check out their full policy to understand exactly what is and is not covered).

But wait, because purchasing a policy with SafetyWing gets even better!

Because not only will you enjoy coverage in almost any country that you might want to travel to (outside of super offbeat destinations like Iran, North Korea, and Cuba), but you’ll also receive $250,000 worth of coverage (There is also one low, annual, overall deductible of $250), and can even use private health care providers in countries where the public healthcare system may be, eh, not so hot.

That being said, SafetyWing does have its limitations and will only cover some, non-medical problems that you encounter while traveling.

Things like trip cancellation and stolen travel gear are NOT covered with their policy.

If you’re over the age of 69, you will NOT be able to purchase a policy with them. And if you decide to visit the US, you will actually have to cancel your current plan and buy an entirely new plan since their basic plan does not offer US insurance. 

But trust me:

Purchasing a new, SafetyWing plan that includes health insurance for the US is incredibly easy to do (FYI: Travel to the US adds $31 to the cost of your policy for every month that you use it).

So, the only question that remains is, “What are you waiting for?”

Go now, and purchase SafetyWing health insurance , at least if you want no-hassle, low-cost, comprehensive medical coverage that will always be there for you, just in case the very worst should happen (Hopefully nothing bad happens, but it’s always good to be prepared!)

24. ELECTRONICS AND AN INTERNATIONAL ADAPTOR

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According to my incredibly helpful Google analytics, most of you out there appear to be American.

And God Bless America. But:

If you’re traveling internationally, then you’re probably gonna need a dual adapter and current converter since the outlets in Asia, Europe, South America, the Middle East, Australia, and Africa all have different shapes, and voltages, from American electrical outlets (Most American outlets only run on 110v of electricity, while other outlets around the world do not).

And since we’re all modern-day, social media-obsessed, tach loving individuals:

I’m assuming that you’ll probably want to use at least some sort of electronic device while you’re traveling, especially since practically everyone on the planet now carries a cell phone (I mean, even Zach Morris from Saved by the Bell had one way back in the ye olde 1990s).

And while most laptops, cellphones, and cameras should be totally fine when you plug them in abroad (since they support multiple voltages), many hair dryers, curling irons, and hair straighteners may not be since these items tend not to support multiple voltages and will probably fry like bacon when you try to plug them in.

To be certain though:

Just check the tag on the appliance you want to use and make sure it explicitly states that the device is dual voltage. If it is then you can use it.

And as I mentioned above:

Because we all love our cell phones, maybe even more so than our kids (kidding), you’ll obviously want to bring your smartphone with you when you travel. 

If you want to use the internet while you’re abroad (To low key stalk your ex on Facebook), then just buy  a local sim card  and put it in your unlocked phone before you leave the country.

Trust me, this is THE cheapest and easiest way to use the internet while you’re traveling!

That being said though, I don’t actually use a sim card.

I use T-Mobile and LOVE them since I get unlimited data internationally for just $50 a month.

Whoop, whoop !

That’s why, I can basically use my phone’s WIFI almost anywhere in the world, at no extra cost to me (As long as I travel and periodically go return to the US).

I can also make calls and text, but that service isn’t unlimited.

You might want to get a sim card if you make a ton of calls and texts internationally. 

Don’t forget to pack a decent pair of headphones since they are the only socially acceptable way for introverts to ignore people who try and talk to them (No, I would NEVER use headphones to ignore people. LOL.).

Personally:

I love a good pair of noise-canceling headphones since they drown out any ambient noise and let me watch my movie in peace.

Basically, any pair of headphones will do, depending on your budget and how much of a high roller you really are.

Oh, and one other thing!

Some other electronic devices that you may want to pack include a tablet with a keyboard, a lightweight laptop, and an e-reader, like a  Kindle . 

Whatever you do though:

Be sure to choose wisely and resist the temptation to overpack!

25. Travel Essentials for Women that Will Help Keep You and Your Stuff Safe!

If you’re gonna be traveling with anything of value, and most travelers are, then you’re gonna need some female travel essentials that will help keep your stuff safe.

In addition to locks and money belts (something that I personally find not-so-useful), here are a few other things that you might want to pack to help keep YOU and your electronics safe.

Because trust me, I’ve been there.

I had my wallet stolen in Barcelona and it was a very un-fun experience.

I don’t want the same thing to happen to you.

Here are a few of the best travel essentials to help keep your stuff UBER-safe, in addition to doing things like watching your belongings, carrying anything important on your person, and always using anti-theft travel products.

  • Pacsafe messenger bag  – Sure, it may not be the most stylish bag on the planet, but it does keep your stuff safe by running a wire through the strap so that no one can slash your bag! It also comes in a variety of different neutral colors, has locking zippers, and multiple, hidden pockets that block RFID readers from scanning your personal information (When carrying large cameras and laptops, try using a locking electronics bag that you can wear in front of you).
  • A Personal Safety Alarm – Since you really can’t bring mace and pepper spray with you on a plane, this personal safety alarm is a good alternative since it’s small, easy to wear, easy to use, comes with three triple A batteries, and makes a loud noise when you press it during an emergency, thus notifying others that you need help.
  • A lock to help secure your personal belongings (Just do yourself a favor and don’t forget the combination)..

Get your FREE, PRINTABLE, Travel Essentials for Women Packing List!

Free, printable, travel essentials for Women Packing List!

So has your mind been officially blown (kaboom) by this list of travel essentials for women? Have you seen the light or a burning bush, or Moses parting the Red Sea? If you answered no to all of these questions then that’s a good sign because if you answered yes, then your mental health might be in question.

Just stick with these products and gadgets for travelers (after i read this post i impulsively bought a backpack with wheels and downloaded all the apps listed here. i have no regrets, especially since the apps are free), and you’ll have a handy packing list for travelers that will make traveling a whole lot easier., so read, buy fun travel essentials for europe (and beyond), pin this for future reference, and be happy because that’s the capitalist way.

travel essentials pics

Traveler Seeker

Monday 25th of July 2022

Thank you so much for this article!! https://goavilla.in/

girlwiththepassport

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Me too and thanks for reading.

Trade marketing

Monday 25th of May 2020

This is such a good site and for girls this is so useful .

Monday 1st of June 2020

Thanks so much!

urdu status whatsapp

Tuesday 25th of February 2020

I found a rolling backpack which has a zip on backpack in the front. It is not too big overall. urdu status

Oh good!Glad to hear it!

Tuesday 14th of August 2018

I found a rolling backpack which has a zip on backpack in the front. It is not too big overall.

Wednesday 15th of August 2018

oh that sounds like a great idea for sure!

Monday 19th of February 2018

This is an awesome list. We don’t travel with a unicorn, but a pineapple! The app trail walker is pure genius, 100% worth it! The only thing I personally do not agree with totally is the backpack with wheels. Sure, it’s better than an actual suitcase, but for me it’s just extra weight. When streets are dirty, you’ll carry it anyway. And I think I’d use the wheels as an excuse to pack more ;)

Thanks for this super cool list!! If I ever do a sum up on my blog , I’ll drop you a line!

Sounds good to me and pineapples are cool too. I think I'd rock a pizza for sure and I think the rolling backpack is great for airports when you don;t want to carry everything. But we're all different so I totally respect that's it's not your thing.

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Travel Essentials List: 30 MUST-HAVE Items to Carry-On

Are you planning a trip and wondering what travel essentials to bring? Check out this travel essentials list of 30 items you should pack in your carry-on backpack! A printable travel essentials list is included below.

No matter your travel destination, there are certain travel necessities you should always pack in your carry-on backpack. A pen. Tissues.Lip Balm.

I can’t leave home without these must-have travel items. They help me survive long flights.

As I get older, not having certain travel essentials makes for an uncomfortable flight, especially if traveling abroad.

Compression socks are now at the top of our travel essentials list for our next international flight. The last time I left them, my feet were swollen throughout our two weeks in Italy. No fun.

This travel essentials list includes 30 items to make your travels more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. It should be part of your vacation packing list.

So what should you pack in your carry-on bag?

blog featured image | travel essentials list

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

This article provides a comprehensive travel essentials list of everything you need to pack in your carry-on backpack. This travel essentials list is perfect for first-time travelers and experienced globetrotters, as we always look for the best things to carry on.

To make packing your carry-on bag easier, we’ve included a printable travel packing checklist at the end of this article. Print out the travel checklist as a packing guide for your next trip.

Table of Contents

What carry-on backpack or bag should you take?

First, let’s chat about the carry-on bag… or backpack…

There are a few different carry-on options. You can travel with a:

  • Rolling carry-on

The type of travel backpack or bag you take is completely up to you and your travel style.

travel essentials pics

We prefer carrying a backpack as a personal item and then a rolling carry-on suitcase when not checking luggage in.

It’s easier to walk around airports and cities with a backpack. Of course, the backpack must have a sleeve so we can slip it over the luggage handle.

Recently, we purchased the Brevitē camera bag – The Jumper . We chose this backpack because we can customize it to fit my DSLR. It also has a lovely feature where I can easily slip the camera in and out of the backpack. Our MacBook Pro also fits in a separate sleeve inside the backpack.

What we love most about this camera bag is that it transforms into a regular backpack when we are not bringing the DSLR. Since we will mostly use it to travel, the DSLR will come with us. It’s one of the main reasons we purchased it.

We needed a camera bag/backpack that made sense to us. In the future, perhaps we will find something else that will be better suited for our travel needs.

Travel Essentials List for Your Carry-on Backpack

What are the things you should pack in your backpack? You should always carry your passport, wallet, and other travel documents.

graphic | top travel essentials to pack

Below is our travel essentials list of 30 items you should always have in your carry-on backpack. They’ll make everything from easy travel days to long-haul flights more comfortable.

1. Pack Your Passport & Official Government ID

female hand handing over passport

This travel essential is a no-brainer. You need your passport to travel internationally and some form of government-issued ID when traveling domestically. Keep these items in an easily accessible but safe place in your carry-on bag.

Consider your passport your golden ticket.

Also, make sure it’s not expired. If it’s a year from expiring, we suggest renewing it ASAP. Do not wait to renew it. We recently waited three months for passport renewal. It is taking quite a bit of time these days, so it is best not to wait.

Read More: Common Travel Mistakes To Avoid

2. Have All Tavel Documents Printed

In our digital age, it seems old-school and wasteful to have to print out all your documents, but it’s a must. Do not leave home without a copy of your travel arrangements.

You never know when you have to pull them out. And you can’t always rely on technology. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

  • Hotel Reservations
  • Cruise documents
  • Car Rental Reservations
  • Tour Confirmations
  • Travel Insurance
  • Copy of your vaccine card

Save now to come back to read later !

pinterest marketing pin | travel essentials list

3. CDC Vaccination Card

Proof of vaccination is being required less and less. Some destinations still require you to submit or show your vaccination card upon entry. Do not leave home without your vaccination card. Put this at the top of your travel essentials list and keep it with your passport.

You can purchase a passport holder and vaccine holder , or you can keep your vaccination card should keep it safe in a clear slip .

red pen sitting on notebook

This is one travel essential people forget about, but a pen is handy for travel documents and filling out forms.

You might not think you need it because most things are digital these days, but you never know when you’ll need to jot something down or fill out a form that doesn’t have the option to do it digitally.

Besides, with all the germs going around, best to carry your own.

Beach Packing List

Get beach-ready with this packing list! Whether you’re heading on a day trip to the beach or taking a beach vacation, this beach packing list comes in handy every time. Don’t miss packing any of these items. Printable included!

hand holding a red wallet

How many times have you heard the story of someone leaving their wallet at home?

Many times! The horror. You could miss your flight this way.

Your wallet probably holds your driver’s license, credit card, money, and other essential items you need when traveling.

It’s easy to forget to transfer it to a carry-on bag. So this is why we are here to remind you not to forget your wallet.

6. Money | Foreign Currency

Don’t leave your home without some cash. Depending on where you travel to, not everyone takes credit cards. Believe me, we love paying for everything with a credit card because we get to rack up those travel points. That cash is important for gratuities and anyone who doesn’t take a credit card.

And if you’re traveling abroad, try to order foreign currency with your bank before you leave the country. The exchange rates at international airports are a scam. Save yourself some time and money.

If you forget to get cash, you can always withdraw from an ATM at a reputable bank. Look for large banks with ATMs inside the bank. You will get the best exchange rate this way, too.

– Don’t Miss: How to Save Money to Travel –

Toiletries, Health & Medications

7. extra masks.

Bring extra masks with you for the plane and during your travels. Some destinations are more relaxed with masks than others, but it’s up to you and how comfortable you feel wearing one.

And t here are international flights that are still requiring them.

8. Bring Disinfectant Wipes & Hand Sanitizer

travel essentials pics

Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are a must , especially during these times. You will want to wipe down your tray table or armrest on the plane or at the airport.

And let’s not forget about those nasty airplane bathrooms. Yuck. Hand sanitizer is also key when soap and water aren’t available.

Top Travel Resources to Help You Book Your Next Trip

Looking for help planning your next trip? Check out our top travel resources! These tools help you find and organize airfare, cruises, hotels, and more. So start planning the best vacation.

9. Medication | Vitamins

If you take any medications or vitamins daily, pack them in your carry-on and keep them close to you. Having some travel essential meds on hand is also great, like Advil, Tylenol, Immodium, and Zyrtec.

We always recommend taking some extra vitamin C or some Airborne. It never hurts to keep your immune system high.

10. Lip balm

travel essentials pics

We can’t forget the lip balm! You’ll want to moisturize your lips because the air in the plane dries you out.

11. Hand lotion

travel essentials pics

We don’t know about you, but our hands get incredibly dry when we travel. The recycled air on the plane dries us out and makes our hands feel rough and stiff.

So always travel with a small tube of hand lotion to keep your hands feeling smooth and moisturized. But remember, it has to be 3oz or less.

12. Disposable Travel Toothbrush or Listerine Strips

travel essentials pics

The small disposable travel toothbrushes and Listerine strips are great for quick freshening up after long flights where we’ve been eating and sleeping. It’s nice to give your mouth a quick brush or pop in one of these strips to freshen up that breath and taste.

13. Eyeglass Cleaning Cloth

travel essentials pics

This is for anyone that wears glasses! You know that cleaning cloth for our glasses is essential everyday. We can easily forget to pack it, so it’s a must on this travel essentials list.

Nobody likes to look through smudged and dirty glasses. And we can never carry enough of these because we lose them. Make sure to carry a couple.

14. Tissues

Never know when you need a tissue. The carry-on packs in your local pharmacy’s travel section are perfect.

Sometimes, we’ll take a wad of tissues from our tissue box at home and put them inside a zip-lock bag.

Travel & Airplane Comforts

15. travel pillow.

women snuggling a blue travel pillow

Let’s chat about travel pillows. We’d say this is an essential travel item if your flight is any more than 3 hours or you’re flying on a redeye.

There are many options, and it will probably take a few different tries to figure out exactly which pillow is right for you.

  • Neck Travel Pillows (the most used)
  • Turtle Pillow
  • Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow
  • Small rectangle travel pillow

Because I can’t sleep on planes, I can’t exactly offer the best sound advice here. However, hubby uses his regular travel pillow and sleeps like a baby. I use a small rectangle pillow because I’m not too fond of the neck pillow, but it is a pain to pack.

Cruise Essentials to Pack

A cruise vacation is a perfect way to relax and escape from the everyday grind. But before you set sail, be sure to pack these essentials that will help make your cruise even more enjoyable. These items include everything from sun protection essentials to must-have medications. So don’t forget to add them to your cruise packing list.

16. Shawl, Scarf, or Travel Blanket

travel essentials pics

A shawl or a travel blanket is on our travel essentials list for a long flight. Unless you’re flight premium economy or first class, expect not to get a travel blanket or pillow. Some airlines will still provide them on international flights. It’s still best to be ready with your own.

You can bring a travel blanket, or you can also bring one of your favorite shawls that you reuse throughout your travels. You can easily roll it up and stuff it into your carry-on backpack.

A travel scarf and shawl, also known as a pashmina, has many purposes. You can roll it up and use it as a pillow. You can use it around your neck. You can cover your head with it. You can use it as a blanket.

17. Eye Mask

travel essentials pics

An eye mask is key for getting some sleep on long flights. These eye masks block out the light in the cabin and are comfortable so that it doesn’t put any pressure on your eyes.

You want an eye mask that is adjustable so you can get the perfect fit. We purchased the ones above in a two-pack, which have been used multiple times.

It has been a game-changer for us, especially since one of us recently took many red-eye flights to New York .

18. Airplane Foot Rest

travel essentials pics

Sitting in economy class? This airplane footrest is an easy hack to help elevate your feet and give you a better reclining position. It hangs over your tray table, and you insert your feet into the hammock.

Supposedly it helps with swelling and soreness and also helps you sleep. We have purchased it for our upcoming travels to Ita l y and will report back.

This also works best for people shorter in height.

19. Compression Socks

travel essentials pics

Compression socks are so important! You should consider wearing compression socks regardless of age or length of the flight.

Compression socks help keep the blood flowing in your legs and feet from swelling and help prevent blood clots.

20. Collapsible Watter Bottle

travel essentials pics

It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially when you’re traveling. Since they don’t allow you to bring water bottles through security, having a collapsible water bottle ready is great. Most international airports have water stations you can fill the water bottles.

The collapsible water bottle is also easy to store and great to have during your travels.

21. Easy Snacks

Always pack snacks. With the post-chaos after 2020, you have no idea what’s open at airports and if you’ll be fed on the plane.

Bring packaged and sealed items like protein bars, nuts, and freeze-dried fruits.

22. Bring a Book to read

Bring a book and/or make sure you have books downloaded to your Kindle or Kindle App.

If you use a Kindle, download your book selection before losing Wi-Fi . Also, charge the device before leaving your house.

Audiobooks are also a great alternative!

23. Mobile Phone

mobile phone with boarding pass

Speaking of the digital age we are living in, we can’t leave home without our mobile phones. Without one, we shouldn’t travel to another city, state, or country. Your mobile phone is one of the top travel essentials.

You’ll need your mobile phone throughout the entire vacation. Assuming you have a fancy smartphone, it probably is your go-to camera. You probably use the internet for travel research, google maps, and more. These days, a mobile phone is a mini-laptop.

24. Get a data plan!

While we are on the subject of phones… This is not exactly a carry-on, but it’s part of your phone, and in my humble opinion, it’s a travel essential. Make sure you have a data plan that covers you wherever you travel.

Don’t rely on unreliable free Wi-Fi or free map apps that work when it feels like it. I understand we want to save money by not paying for data plans – that used to be us- but there are options. You don’t want to regret it later.

Especially when the gate agent asks you to fill out a form online from your phone, in the present times that we are living in, the chances of this happening are high.

There are options now for data:

  • Get a temporary international data plan with your cellphone provider. .. ask them what they have available. We are with T-Mobile, and our monthly international plan includes unlimited data in over 200 countries.
  • You can purchase a local SIM card with unlimited data when you arrive in the country you’re visiting.
  • Set up an e-Sim option before you fly and arrive at your destination. Note: Your phone must have the capability to use e-Sims.
  • You can also invest in a Wifi hot spot .

Now, if you’re looking to disconnect while you travel, good for you completely!

While we are at it, we suggest signing up for a VPN to keep your data safe and ensure that certain sites aren’t blocked when visiting another country. We use Surfshark VPN: click here for more info.

25. Bring a Set of Headphones

travel essentials pics

You’ll want to bring your own to use on the plane, whether they are noise-canceling headphones or your favorite earbuds. For short flights, you may get away without needing them, but for long-haul flights, they are necessary. The ones they hand out on the plane are not great or comfortable.

Most planes have a regular audio jack and do not have Bluetooth capability. So if you’re headphones are wireless, they will not work with the flight’s entertainment system. We do have a solution for this.

You can either bring a pair of headphones with an old audio jack plugin or bring along a wireless transmitter . The wireless transmitter can be plugged into the audio jack, allowing you to use your Bluetooth headphones.

26. Necessary Chargers and Adapters

travel essentials pics

Do not forget to pack the necessary chargers and adapters for your electronics . Also, any international adapters you may need. This is one travel essential often forgotten, and we spend money buying new ones. That money does add up quickly.

You will probably need to pack the following:

  • mobile phone USB charger and adapter
  • laptop plug
  • camera charger
  • backup battery charger and USB plug
  • international adapter / plug
  • additional power outlet , just in case

We pack all of these chargers and cables in a travel case . It makes slipping into a backpack or carry-on luggage easier and more compact.

27. Backup charger

travel essentials pics

A backup charger is one of the best things on this travel essentials list. You should carry a backup charger during all your travels. You never know when you’ll need it.

It can be small enough to fit in your purse or a small backpack.

28. Laptop or Tablet

A tablet may be all you need to travel, which is awesome. It’s lighter and easier to carry. But sometimes, you may need to work on a laptop or have it to transfer your photos to an external hard drive.

Either way, you should always pack your electronics in a carry-on bag . Do not check in valuable items like this.

29. External Hardrive

travel essentials pics

As you take photos and videos with your camera, you may want to transfer them to an external drive. You should always keep the external hard drive safe in your carry-on. For us, this is a travel essential.

It’s also great to back up those photos to a cloud photo storage like SmugMug .

Some of us travel just with our smartphones, the camera we always have available. If you plan to bring any other cameras, you want to pack those in your carry-on. These are items you do not want to check in with your luggage.

We travel with our Sony A7iii full-frame mirrorless camera and a  GoPro .

We hope this list helps you pack your carry-on for traveling. As always, we welcome any additional travel tips or suggestions from our readers.

What are some of the travel essentials that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below!

pinterest marketing pin | carry on packing list

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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I Haven’t Checked a Bag in 10 Years — Here, My 14 Sure-fire Travel Essentials to Get Everything in a Carry-on

These frequent flier-approved picks cover all of your travel bases, and they start at $10.

travel essentials pics

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

I travel twice a month covering destinations that inspire readers and those planning vacations. In order to efficiently move through airports, take Ubers, and lug everything on my own, I’ve had to master the art of packing light . But as a chronic overpacker in my former days, this didn’t come easy. However, once I started embracing the carry-on-only lifestyle, I would never go back. It’s been over 10 years since I’ve checked a bag — regardless of where I’m going or how long the trip is. 

In addition to quality luggage pieces (I swear by my Gregory Quadro 22-Inch Hardcase Carry-On and always bring Calpak’s Luka Duffel as my personal carry-on tote to fit extra clothes and accessories), successful carry-on-only traveling involves strategic packing. When planning which clothes to bring, I think in terms of outfits and try to incorporate versatile capsule wardrobe items that match with several things (layers are also key). Lastly, compression packing cubes work wonders — as do my 14 travel essentials that always make my packing list so I never have to check a bag.

These go-to items include packing aids, versatile clothing and accessories, and more to help me maximize every inch of suitcase space without going over the limit. Even better, they start at $10 at Amazon. 

Cambond Compression Packing Cubes

Compression organizers are game-changers. Not only do they flatten your items so you can pack more in your suitcase, but they also aid in organizing your outfits; you can pack your clothes according to style, color, or category. Cambond’s sturdy nylon packing cubes have a double zipper for easy access and hassle-free compressing. They’re also water-resistant, which means that they'll protect your items from any potential leaks or spills. I also like that they’re lightweight; the last thing you want to do is add weight to your carry-on. 

They’re sold in sets with various sizing options, and are available in 45 colors. This item is a favorite among shoppers because of how effective the compression is for packing. And, according to one Amazon reviewer , they helped them travel to Europe for "a week with only a backpack and a carry-on." 

Anrabess Romper With Pockets

I always pack a romper because it saves space and maximizes your outfit potential. This super cute one from Amazon-loved brand Anrabess is made with a comfy polyester-rayon-spandex blend to ensure comfort and stretch. You can play with the neckline and wear it several ways — crewneck style, off-the-shoulder, or Bardot-style. The tie-front drawstring at the waist accentuates your silhouette, offering a flattering fit. 

The fabric is thick so it’s not see-through. It makes the perfect loungewear item and is versatile enough to wear to the beach, picnics, by the pool, and even out running errands. Pair it with a nice pair of sandals or heels and it’s the perfect outfit for dinner. I’m a huge fan of pockets, and the romper has two side pockets for holding lightweight (but essential) items such as lipstick or cash.

M.M. LaFleur Moreland Jacket

M.M.Lafleur 

A seasonless suit is a no-brainer when I head out for work trips. Even if you’re traveling for pleasure, sporting a blazer and a pair of trousers creates an instantly sophisticated look. M.M. LaFleur’s Origami Tech collection is specifically designed to be your ultimate travel companion; the Moreland Jacket and matching Colby pants are wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable. 

The set can be worn together or separately; the jacket matches well with a good, old pair of jeans on sightseeing days or leggings when you’re catching a flight. You can also wear it over a dress or blouse-skirt combo for polished lunch or dinner looks. To get the same workwear-inspired travel outfit for less, you can grab Amazon’s best-selling blazer for $58. 

Amazhiyu Button-Down Midi Dress With Pockets and Belt 

Pack a dress that does everything, one that you can wear during the day and do double duty at night. While I’m obsessed with the celeb-favorite Jenni Kayne Day Dress , at a whopping $395, a girl’s got to budget. That’s why, when I found this linen button down dress at Amazon, I couldn’t wait to try it on. It features a sleeveless, collar design with side slits and a removable self-tie belt to give it shape; it’s very flattering and accommodates all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, I use my favorite woven belt (I'll go into more detail about it later) instead, which instantly creates a different vacation look without requiring additional clothing items. 

It’s a great travel piece for spring because it’s made of 100 percent linen, which is known for being a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric. There are two side pockets for stashing essentials, a feature that reviewers praised. One shopper wrote , "I absolutely love this dress. The pockets are really big, which is great. Everything about this dress is quality, and I stayed cool in the summer heat." Another noted that the pockets "are flat and don't stick out" when they have stuff in them. 

Lightbird Foldable Summer Straw Bucket Beach Hat

This packable straw hat is the best travel hack. There have been many times where I’ve wanted to bring a stylish hat, but ended up not doing so because it takes up too much real estate in my luggage. That's no longer a worry with this stylish bucket hat that folds down for easy packing. It also easily adjusts to fit almost everyone with a cinch drawstring lining on the inside. 

It’s a hot travel accessory because not only does it keep you safe from the sun’s rays, it also keeps you cool and looking stylish. Plus, you can use it to spice up your vacation outfits, giving the already-worn looks a fresh feel. 

Vermouth Beauty In The Nude Flight of Five Crayons

When traveling, I always bring these cleverly packaged Vermouth lip crayons, which are sustainably sourced and free of plastics and chemicals. Each "flight" features a color palette of five crayons in various hues, giving you multiple lipstick options without taking up precious toiletry bag space. 

What's more, these long-lasting and hydrating crayons can be worn dabbed on your cheeks like blush or swiped across your eyelids in place of eyeshadow, further helping you cut down on beauty products and freeing up room for other trip essentials in your toiletry bag and carry-on. 

Fjallraven Women's Kanken Hip Pack

I’m a huge fan of Fjallraven travel bags because of their timeless designs and practicality. Made with 100 percent vinylon fabric, this hip pack is durable and water-resistant, and is the only bag that you need to pack. It works whether you’re hitting the streets for a day of window shopping, the trails for hiking, or the strip for dinner. It’s just small enough that it also works as a wallet within a bigger bag or purse, if that's more your vibe (and you need the extra carry-on space). I like wearing it as a crossbody, though some fans wear it as a fanny pack. 

Versatility aside, this bag really shines because of its roominess. One shopper wrote , "I was worried at first because it looks very small, but it has three compartments [and a] lot of room." 

Everlane Day Ballet Flats

Everlane's Day Ballet Flats are easy to pack and don’t take up a lot of space. They can be worn with a casual outfit or dressed up for a nice dinner. Because of their adaptability, you’ll always find them on my packing list. While I own several pairs of the brand’s flats, these are my favorite because they’re chic and comfortable. I especially like the sweet little bow on top. 

The soft, buttery leather molds to your feet, so they get more comfortable with wear. They’re great travel shoes because they’re stylish when paired with denim, leggings, dresses, pants, and even shorts. What's more, the outsoles are made of rubber, which keeps you from slipping on smooth or wet surfaces.

SeptCity Woven Rattan Wide-Stretch Straw Belt

It's time to give my favorite belt its flowers. A belt changes everything, and I love getting creative and refreshing an outfit with this trendy belt. It converts one outfit into another one, requiring you to pack less — a.k.a. why it's a must on my packing list. Its rattan fabric adds an elegant touch to my favorite outfits, and I love to wear it with skirts, dresses, over cardigans, and even tunics (one of my favorite looks is pairing it with this Trovata shift or PrettyGarden’s floral frock ).

It has a sturdy wooden buckle and measures 41.3 inches in length and 1.8 inches wide, but still offers you a little wiggle room with its stretchy design. The belt is also available in beige and cream, which are both neutral colors that work with most outfit palettes.  

Acelitt Short-Sleeve V-Neck Button-Front Belted Jumpsuit

Similar to rompers, jumpsuits streamline the amount of clothes that you need to pack, offering you extra room so you don’t have to overpack and check your bags. This elegant version from Amazon-favorite brand Acelitt is ready for any situation; just add a sweater, blazer, or jacket on top to change it up. It’s comfortable, trendy, and super flattering, and the fabric is soft and stretchy so you can sport it on the plane, around town, and out to dinner without needing an outfit change. 

One traveler wrote , "I love this jumpsuit so much that I have it in blue and black, [and I'm] ordering the olive green next. It's super easy to dress up or down [and] fits true to size. I always get compliments on it. It's great to travel with as well." 

Mammut Runbold Light Pants

Mammut’s Runbold Light Pants are multi-functional for me. I wear them while running, hiking, and lounging, and they're lightweight and breathable material makes them perfect for spring’s transitional temperatures (you can even wear them well into the summer). The elastic waistband offers comfort for all activities, and you can convert to three-quarter-length pants to change up their look when your itinerary calls for it.  

The two slit side pockets have zippers, which are ideal for hiking and traveling. They’re super easy to pack and water-repellent, so if the forecast warns of a slight drizzle, you’ll be okay. 

Everlane’s Cotton Modern Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, and I especially like to pack one for spring travel because it is well-suited for the variable weather. If you’re like me and have been fan-crushing on Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe on "The Morning Show," then you’re going to fall for Everlane’s Cotton Trench Coat, which is half the price of other brand names and has a classic silhouette, with a belt to cinch at the waistline — and is fully-lined and water-resistant. 

But, if $268 is too much for your travel wardrobe budget, I also spotted various, under-$100 versions at Amazon. Give the Farktop Double-Breasted Oversized Long Trench Coat (on sale for $80) or the Tanming Notch Lapel Double- Breasted Pea Coat-style Trench (which is on sale for $60) a look.

M.M. LaFleur Merritt Jardigan

M.M. LaFleur

The Merritt Jardigan is an investment that I’m glad I made. A cross between a tailored jacket and a cardigan, with a tie-front belt that accentuates your figure, it works wonders for elevating your ensemble, and can be worn from your desk to the airport to dinner. Wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and long enough to cover your assets, I’ve worn it on the way to Pilates class, at the airport, and for numerous dinners. Plus, the fabric is season-less, which makes it great for any time of the year. 

You can achieve the same elegant, quiet luxury wardrobe vibes with the Anrabess Open Front Cardigan Jacket , which is an Amazon-favorite outerwear piece that's just $50. 

Feisedy Polarized Vintage Sunglasses Jackie O Cat-Eye Sunglasses

I stopped shelling out hundreds of dollars for brand-name glasses because they can easily get damaged or lost, especially when traveling. These elegant sunglasses give off a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” look at a compelling price, and they're incredibly versatile with their classic black, cat-eye silhouette that can be worn with any outfit for any occasion. 

Not only are they light and comfortable, they’re polarized and offer 100 percent UV protection from the sun. The lenses are scratch-resistant, which enhance their durability. Singing the sunnies' praises, one shopper said , "They're better than my expensive, name-brand sunglasses. I can see better while traveling. I will take them with me on any of my trips without being afraid to lose them… not [a] scratch yet." 

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travel essentials pics

8 small travel essentials that make a big difference

Foot hammocks and facial sprays add comfort to long flights

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Photo collage of a face mist, a young woman using a face mist in a train, and an older man using a handheld electric fan on holiday.

When you make a purchase using links on our site, The Week may earn a commission. All reviews are written independently by our editorial team.

When flying, the most important thing is getting to your destination safely — but if you can make it from point A to point B comfortably, that's even better. Set yourself up for success by packing carry-on items to make life in the air a breeze. Here are eight small yet mighty travel essentials. 

Aesop Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol 

A bottle of Aesop Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol

One spray is enough to have you feeling refreshed

Airplane cabins have notoriously dry air, which can be bad news for your skin. Spritz your way back to hydration with Aesop's vegan Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol, a refreshing rose petal-infused mist. Spray it as often as necessary and be sure to take a deep breath in to savor the fresh floral and citrus scent. 

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Basic Concepts airplane foot hammock

A person wearing orange socks put their feet in a Basic Concepts foot hammock

Give your feet a break with this comfortable hammock

Get ready to kick up your feet and relax. It only takes seconds to get this padded hammock set up; hang it around your tray table, adjust the straps to the desired length and voila! You have yourself a foot or leg rest to make the cramped airline seat feel more luxurious. This position can help reduce swelling and alleviate backaches.

$14.99, Amazon

Hammacher Schlemmer The In Flight Hanging Organizer

A gray Hammacher Schlemmer in flight hanging organizer hangs from an airplane tray hook

This hanging organizer keeps everything you need handy 

Instead of digging around in your carry-on or trying to stuff all your things into the tiny seatback pocket in front of you, keep your books, magazines, iPad and laptop in this roomy organizer. It hangs from your tray table hook and has six pouches to hold all your flight essentials. If things get bumpy, zip it up to ensure everything stays put.

$59.99, Hammacher Schlemmer

Comrad compression socks

A pair of blue and white ombre Comrad compression socks

Say goodbye to swelling with these compression socks

Think of compression socks as hugs for your legs. These socks gently and continuously squeeze your calves, increasing circulation and preventing blood from pooling — making them a game changer for anyone who experiences mild to moderate swelling and leg pain on an airplane. Comrad's unisex compression socks are made of breathable material, offer a medium 15-20 mmHG of graduated compression and come in more than a dozen colors and patterns. 

Starting at $27.99, Amazon

Origins Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief

A bottle of Origins Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief in front of a green background

The name says it all

Maybe flying makes you nervous, or the plane hit a rough patch of turbulence that shook you up. Instead of downing several glasses of wine, try Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief, a sensory treatment infused with a blend of peppermint, basil and eucalyptus oils that you can rub onto the back of your neck or temples for a calming effect. The bottle fits in your pocket, making it easy to grab when you need to de-stress.

$19, Origins

Cincha travel belt 

A Cincha travel belt around a red bag on top of a wheeled suitcase

The Cincha travel belt keeps your bags in place

Your tote or weekender is staying put with the Cincha Travel Belt. This elastic belt secures your personal item to your wheeled carry-on so you no longer have to worry about it slipping, sliding or falling off as you rush through the airport to board your flight. These come in a variety of fun colors and patterns to jazz up any luggage, like purple and blue stripes and traditional leopard.

$39.99, Cincha

Jisulife portable handheld fan 

A blue Jisulife portable handheld fan

No air nozzles on the plane? No problem.

This tiny, two-speed portable fan will help you stay cool even when the cabin is stuffy. It has a flashlight and can run for 14 hours, plus it doubles as a power bank in case your phone runs out of juice. The rechargable fan does make a little noise, but it should not disturb your fellow passengers. 

$17.99, Amazon

BlueHills premium soft travel blanket

A blue-gray BlueHills travel blanket with carrying case

Curl up with this lightweight BlueHills travel blanket

Even on the shortest flights, you probably want to get cozy — it gets cold up at 30,000 feet! This lightweight, machine-washable plush blanket is big enough to keep you toasty without encroaching on anyone else's space. It comes with a zippered carrying case, and when the blanket is tucked inside you can also use it as a travel pillow. Win-win.

$29.99, Amazon

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Catherine Garcia is night editor for TheWeek.com . Her writing and reporting has appeared in Entertainment Weekly and EW.com , The New York Times , The Book of Jezebel , and other publications. A Southern California native, Catherine is a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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What Are Travel Essentials?

The definition of travel essentials varies from case to case, depending on who is traveling, what style of travel they prefer, and where they are traveling. In all cases, money and important documents, as well as appropriate protections for those items, should be considered travel essentials. Many travelers rely on electronic devices and should make sure to bring equipment needed to use or charge those items. Personal grooming and comfort items should typically also be priorities. Appropriate luggage is also necessary for most types of travel.

Travel documents and money are the most important travel essentials. Passports, visas, drivers’ licenses, and other required forms of identification are critically important, and should be stored in a safe place while traveling. Copies of all documents should be kept both somewhere else in a traveler’s luggage and with a friend or relative at home. Some amount of money is needed for nearly every sort of travel, and it is a good idea to make sure to have both cash and credit available. Travel guides and maps are also very helpful, whether carried as books or programs on mobile devices.

Electrical and electronic devices are travel essentials in the modern age. In addition to the electronic devices themselves, a traveler should make sure to bring any equipment needed to use or charge those travel accessories. This will often include both a power supply and a power converter when traveling internationally.

Grooming and comfort are important to most travelers as well. Toiletries and other small personal items should be considered travel essentials. Medicines and glasses or contact lenses are crucial travel gear , as is documentation explaining any prescription medication. Small comfort items, such as back or neck pillows , earplugs and face masks, or lightweight towels can greatly ease the stress of travel, especially air travel.

Appropriate clothes and shoes are also travel essentials. Anyone planning to hike or backpack should bring foot gear suitable for walking, and should prepare for the possibility of inclement weather as well. Travelers should also make sure to pack clothing that is culturally appropriate. A visitor to Italy, for instance, may be denied access to some of that nation’s historic churches if they are not dressed appropriately.

Luggage is also critical to the success of most travel ventures. Luggage needs to be durable and adequately easy to transport. Smaller secondary packs or satchels are handy, as they allow most of a traveler’s luggage to be left at a hotel room, hostel, or other home base.

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Related Articles

  • What Is the Best Travel Pillow?
  • What Is a Travel Pillow Case?
  • What Are the Different Types of Travel Toiletries?
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  • By: NilsZ Earplugs.
  • By: Popova Olga Passports are essential travel documents.
  • By: Marzky Ragsac Jr. Maps and cash are always important when traveling.
  • By: Freesurf If possible, consult several different travel guides that offer in-depth information on your destination.
  • By: Maridav Many travel guide books are available in both print and electronic versions.
  • By: Arkady Chubykin Booking accommodations in advance of a trip can help save on costs.
  • By: HappyAlex Foreign-bound travelers who are bringing laptops or other electronic devices should pack an adapter plug.
  • By: iroto123 Many people prefer to use their own shampoos and soap when traveling.
  • By: Inger Anne Hulbækdal Some people like to travel with their own towels, washcloths and even pillows.
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39 Travel Essentials You Probably Haven’t Thought Of, But Definitely Need

In case your travel checklist missed a few things.

Kit Stone

BuzzFeed Staff

Kaila Browner

1. A marble compact contact lens case  that might make you feel a little more secure. It comes with a tube you can use to hold the solution and a contact remover tool — all in this chic little package. 

the white and grey marble case with rose gold contact lens case and three tools

This kit includes: a mirror, contact lens case, a mini solution bottle for your contact solution, a contact tweezer tool for pulling out your contacts from the lens case, and a contact remover tool used to remove and put on your contacts.

Promising review: "This product is great for the girlies who wear contacts everyday and like to maintain an aesthetic. The rose gold and marble is just *chefs kiss*. It holds just the right amount of all contacts lens essentials. Helps keep your handbag organized too!" — thepursonalshopper

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+  (available in three styles).

2. A set of packing cubes you'll definitely want if you're looking for a way to maximize all the space in your carry-on. Believe it or not, you can situate a week's worth of gear with the help of these babies. Not just a space-saving solution, but it'll also help you organize your belongings which makes it easier to identify when something is missing. 

the beige packing cubes filled and inside a suitcase

The set includes three different size packing cubes, one bra and underwear bag, one shoe bag, and one bag for your toiletries.

Promising review: "Really nice quality cubes. I’ve never used them before and was really pleased with how well they worked. I didn’t even need to use all of them. The large cube was enough for a small suitcase!" — Caroline

Get the six-piece set from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in seven colors and two sizes).

3. A mini lightweight flat iron  because you're not sure if you'll actually need it, but just in case you want to rock a bone straight hairdo, you'll be happy you'll have it. It might take a bit to heat up, but once it does, it'll have the power of a full-size flat iron. And, it an fit in your suitcase with ease. 

reviewer showing their naturally curly hair and then pin straight hair achieved using the straightener

And you'll get a lil' heat-resistant pouch to carry it wherever you go!

Promising review: "I took this flat iron to Europe for a two week vacation. It did a great job smoothing my hair out. Be sure to check the measurements as it is very small. However, it got the job done for me." — Leslie Webb

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+  ( available in three colors).

4. A digital luggage scale  so you can know before you go how heavy your luggage is. There's nothing worse than being caught off guard by an unexpected fee because your bag didn't feel  that heavy. It can weigh luggage up to 110 pounds, which should be enough after souvenier shopping, right? 😳

the luggage weight

Check out this TikTok from BuzzFeed shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly , to see this palm-sized luggage scale in action!

Promising review: "This luggage scale is so handy and is great for weighing your luggage. I was a little concerned before I got it because I wasn't sure how accurate it would be. When I used it when I went on vacation, it was dead on to what the airport said, so I highly recommend this. Plus, it’s easy to pack in your bags." — Teresa Daniels

Get it from Amazon for $10.99+  (available in six colors).

5. A buckled luggage strap  to fasten your purse, laptop bag, and more to your suitcase without worrying about accidentally leaving your bag behind. 

the strap on a suitcase holding a backpack

Promising review: "I love this little gadget. I used it to attach my jacket and computer bag to my luggage on an extended business trip. It made my airport walks so much easier. Now that I'm back home, I've been using it daily to attach my jacket or cardigan to my work bag or purse." — Michele

Get it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in six colors and two-packs).

6. Or a chic and secure travel belt  perfect for mixing and matching your luggage so that you can still connect your bags together for easy rolling through the airport. 

the

Cincha is run by a BIPOC couple based in Oakland, California, who believe traveling in style should also be secure. They've been making the chic travel belt since 2019.

Promising review: "Such a simple yet brilliant solution for the ever falling bag when trying to juggle all your luggage. It definitely made traveling less stressful." — Samantha

Get it from Cincha for $39.99+ (available in two sizes and 23 colors).

7. A memory foam Ostrich pillow neck cushion  so you won't have to spend the first two days of your next vacation trying to work the crook out of your neck. This upgraded version offers 360-degree natural ergonomic neck support to keep your head upright so your plane, train, or automobile nap will actually be comfortable. 

person using the travel pillow

Promising review: "I bought it for a trip that had two long haul flights as well as various shorter flights. It is almost impossible for me to sleep on a plane, unless I get the full row to lay down. This thing helped me fall asleep almost immediately without waking up every time my head bobbed. I also used it as a nap pillow: your face can fit the hole perfectly as well as the back or side of your head, so it really works well for that too. I highly recommend this pillow!" — MSC7

Get it from Amazon for $69 (available in three colors).

8. A convenient six-port USB charger  for those hotel rooms that have little to no outlets which makes it difficult to keep all your devices charged. 

the six port charger

Promising review: " This USB charger has been awesome for travel since it allows me to skip packing a separate USB brick for each of my devices. It is smart enough to determine whether the device has the capability to quickly charge via higher amperage output and automatically delivers the appropriate output to each device. The LED that indicates that the unit is receiving power is a nice touch, especially when many hotels I stay at seem to have dead power outlets. I use it with an iPad, iPhone, portable Bluetooth speaker, and a portable recharging pack. It handles those devices well and charges them quickly." — Sam Ellis

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in black and white).

9. A designated dirty laundry bag  to keep the clothes you've already worn separated from your clean clothes. 

grey dirty laundry bag

Promising review: "I love this bag for travel. It's the perfect size. Unlike so many travel laundry bags, this one is the perfect size for clothes and undies. So many are too small like a lingerie bag or too big like a bag to take to the laundromat. This is cute and folds up into itself." — N. Newman

Get it from Amazon for $12+  (available in 11 styles).

10. A travel toothbrush , small enough to fit in a pocket, that folds to keep the bristles clean. You can keep it in your carry-on or your everyday bag in case you'd like to brush on the go. 

the foldable toothbrush

Promising review: "These are great! I travel around a lot for work, and also have Invisalign, so I like to keep one in my work bag as well as my travel bag. The best part is the convenience. I used to carry a tooth brush in a case that took up a lot of room in my work bag as well as my travel bag. Now I just use these. They are small, durable, easy to use, and the brush is full covered when it is fully closed, which is what I was a little worried about at first. It was exactly what I was looking for in a travel toothbrush. I highly recommend, and I will be purchasing again." — Demetri

Get it from Amazon for $5.99  (available in two colors).

11. Vacuum seal bags for the ultimate space-saver. If you can't possibly leave behind your fave ensembles, then these vacuum-sealed bags are ideal. Fill it up, use a vacuum to suck the air out, and voila! You've not only packed up your best OOTDs, but now you have room to shop for a few more on vacation. 

Jasmin's bulky clothes in a sealed bag with text:

Promising review: "I've used these bags before and they are so helpful. I even use the medium one for travel and I have tons of extra suitcase room. The clothes don't come out wrinkled at all as long as you fold them nicely before placing in the bag , then the air sucks out keeping them safe and sound and very compact." — Susie Kochsmeier

Get a six-pack from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in five sizes and three pack quantities).

12. An easily portable and packable  handheld steamer because you've managed to fit all your outfits inside the bag which means they're definitely going to be wrinkled when you finally unpack. This handheld steamer will have them looking ~pristine~ when you're ready to head out and explore.

reviewer's super wrinkled shirt

Promising review: "Bought this to de-wrinkle some linen tablecloths and lace table runners for my son's wedding reception. It worked very well. Linen tablecloths were a great test for it since they are a fairly hard type of cloth to get wrinkles out of. It only took a few minutes to heat up completely and I used it for a couple of hours nonstop. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase — especially since it was less than $35! You can't go wrong with this handy little steamer. If I had to complain about anything, it would be the size of the water tank. I wish it were slightly bigger, but since it heats up so quickly, there really isn't anything to complain about." — WeekendWarrior2017

Get it from Amazon for $23.99+  (available in two colors).

13. A leather organizer  big enough to keep every single charger, headphone, and adapter tangle-free. Wow, you're more organized on the go than you are at home. 

a cord organizing pack storing several cords

Mister Crafter is a small business based in the US that specializes in custom-made leather products.

Promising review: "A perfect companion taking cords and a 65w charger between the office and home office. Bought one for my son-in-law who travels for work. He loves it as well." — Phillip M.

Get it from Mister Crafter on Etsy for $34.12+  (available in two colors and sizes and three personalization options).

14. A handy  sunglasses organizer case  ready to hold up to five of your best shades for your upcoming beach getaway. This case will protect your sunnies from scratches, smears, and breaking while you're en route. 

reviewer holding closed sunglasses storage case

Promising review: "I had been looking at this organizer for a long time before recently purchasing for an upcoming trip to the Bahamas. I have a lot of sunglasses and like being able to have several pairs with me on trips, but hate having a bunch of individual cases to deal with. This organizer case is perfect! It exceeded my expectations, which is actually really hard to do. It’s packaged beautifully and is very high quality. It looks to be durable, as well. It’s a very cute case and I love that it holds my glasses snugly so I don’t have to worry about them getting damaged in my suitcase during transport. I highly recommend this organizer case and wish I would’ve bought it four trips ago!!" — Ashley Smith

Get it from Amazon for $35.49+ (clip the coupon on the product page to save 5%; available in two colors).

15. A suitcase protector  just begging to travel with you to keep your chic suitcase looking brand new by protecting your luggage from cosmetic scratches that can happen to your checked bags. 

travel essentials pics

Promising review: "I am an Away suitcase fanatic and my favorite color is pink but that makes it hard to keep any checked luggage clean. Found this cover and was skeptical, especially bc I couldn’t figure out sizing so I ordered a few. The away suitcase pictured is the large away and the 28” cover fit it like a glove! So happy to have found this!" — Amanda S.

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+  (available in four sizes).

16. An AirTag passport holder , if you already have an AirTag, this passport holder is perfect for you. It has slots to store your passport, credit cards, and more as well as a convenient compartment for your AirTag to help you find the location of your passport if you lose it. 

passport holder closed wit airtag chained onto it

Promising review: "I purchased this for my college aged son to use while studying abroad and traveling across Europe. He consistently misplaces everything! This has been wonderful for peace of mind." — Jerry&Sam

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+  (available in eight colors).

17. A pack of four Apple AirTags  that you can put on your luggage (and pretty much all your other belongings) to keep track of them. It has a simple one-tap setup that'll instantly connect your AirTag with your iPhone or iPad. It also has a built-in speaker to help you find your lost items. 

Four Apple AirTags

You can also get a single AirTag for only $24 .

Promising review: "While on a delayed flight from Newark to Dublin I could see one of my bags was not on the plane. This was great information because when we arrived in Dublin I was able to be the first one in line to file a missing bag claim." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $74.99 .

18. A travel blanket and pillow set  to hopefully make even the economy seats feel premium. Whether you're riding in the back seat of a long road trip or sitting in an ice-cold airport, having this blanket and pillow set will come in handy. Just unzip the pillow, pull out the blanket, and fold it away when you're done. It also clips onto your carry-on for your convenience.

reviewer using the blanket on a plane

EverSnug is a small business that sells travel sleeping care kits.

Promising review: "This product in my opinion it is worth it if you are traveling anywhere in the world. I just traveled to five different countries with it and I traveled by airplane by bus by train, and in every single one of my travels. This was a godsend. It is so good so fluffy and it’s good quality because it has been through a lot and it’s still in very good shape so I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a blanket which can potentially turn into a pillow now a lot of people were talking about it not being able to be a pillow if you made it into a blanket but if you have a jacket with you or anything else with your scarf, anything you can put it inside the pillow case and voilà, you have a pillow and a blanket at the same time, so I highly recommend it if you’re traveling, it is a beautiful blanket and you will not be disappointed." — Kenlbel

Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in six colors).

19. A pack of 12 travel hangers  so you can hang up your blouses and dresses once you arrive. They barely take up any space, too. Oh, they'll also be useful if you need to hand wash any of your items during your travels. You can use these hangers to hang them up to dry.

A pack of hangers in their folded states

Promising review: "They are so light weight and yet so durable I can’t say enough good things about them. I love the fact that they come in their own bag so that I wouldn’t have several hangers flying around my suitcase. I love that now I don’t have to worry about how many hangers the hotel has. This solves that problem instantly. Another big bonus is that if you decide to do laundry you can now hang up your clothes to dry. The hangers are very light and they add relatively nothing to the overall weight of my suitcase. It is the perfect solution for my travel needs." — P. Thomassen

Get them from Amazon for $12.99 .

20. A portable door lock  because anything that helps you to feel safer in your home away from home is a win. In a few seconds, you can install it (without tools) and remove it when you're ready to go out and explore. Peace of mind is priceless. 

reviewer holding door lock tool

Promising review: "I took my first solo trip and ordered this for extra security. Was super easy to install and didn't require to leave my hotel door ajar for an extended amount of time for installation. My hotel door didn't even move when I tested out the lock. 10/10 recommend for a peace of mind." — Haley Gribble

Get it from Amazon for $11.99+  (available in three pack sizes).

21. A pack of 102 compressed toilet paper tablets  for those times when you need a wipe. These pop out but without the chemicals and irritating scents. One tablet and a few drops of water will grant you a full-sized moist cloth. Reviewers say they're durable, too. 

The compression towels

Portawipes is a small company based in Wyoming that sells compressed toilet paper tablets.

Promising reviews: "I am impressed with the quality of these wipes. They are durable and cheap! They are a must for everyday carry (EDC), first aid, and bug out bags. There are a couple of things to keep in mind. You will need a sharp knife to open the hard plastic packaging. Water is required to make the towel expand. Thus, you cannot use the wipe to dry a wet surface, unless you let it dry first." — Justin B.

"I originally bought these for a backpacking trip into the Wyoming Wilderness. A weight saving move as regular wipes are heavy. Everyone loved these. They weigh nothing and use almost no room in my pack. Easy to use. Add a few drops of water and they expand. Very soft but did not tear. Gave some to my wife for her trip to Spain. She liked them also. Easy to put a tube in her purse, saved a lot of room in her luggage." — KAL In GilbertAZ

Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (also available in more pack sizes).

22. A rechargeable  portable misting fan with 180-degree fold, three speeds, a continuous spray mode (lasts about 40 minutes), and the ability to balance on flat surfaces.  

reviewer holding handheld fan

Promising review: "I took this fan with me on my two weeklong vacation to Italy in the middle of August, and it literally saved my vacation. We had to stand in long lines outside in the heat and inside cathedrals with no air conditioning or cooling. We took tours riding on buses and trains, you name, and the battery life lasted most of the day . It was easy to charge with my little rechargeable battery pack in my backpack. It’s not heavy at all, and I love the way it tilts so that I can put it on the table in front of me on the train or at a cafe. It didn’t tip over easily like my friends’ fan did (not this one). I just love it!" — Tracy L. W.

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in three colors).

23. A disposable bedsheet  if TravelTok horror stories have left you a little concerned about not-so-clean bedsheets. You can place this disposable bedsheet over the bedding (available in various sizes) and hopefully rest more peacefully knowing there's at least some barrier between you and the hotel bedding. 

a collage of pictures that describe the disposable sheet's qualities

Promising review: "I took these on a recent trip. Stayed at a hotel. Wasn’t sure how they would be. They were GREAT. The drape is puddling smooth. Really comfortable and warm. No crinkling 'noise' at all. Planning to order more to keep on hand. Love that pillowcase covers are included. Then disposable makes them absolutely perfect. I feel so much better sleeping on sheets I know are clean and impermeable than questionable ones ." — Cary K.

Get a two-pack from Amazon for $17.99+  (available in two styles and four sizes).

24. A Bug Bite Thing suction tool  ideal for camping trips when you hiking to view the sunset gets derailed by a bug bite buffet. It's chemical-free and can help stop itching caused by bee stings, spider bites, and more. 

Writer's photo of the Bug Bite Thing next to where she used it on her leg

Promising review: "I live near woods and a lake, so I am CONSTANTLY being terrorized by insects.  I swear, some days I am just minding my own business, grabbing my mail and then I will look down and have three or four bug bites. This helps with the itchiness and swelling! It's not going to make the bite disappear, but it will make the bites less annoying! Once a mosquito bit me on my knuckle (seriously the worst spot) and the suction helped to relieve some of the irritation. I've also used it on a splinter and it's better than trying to get the splinter out with a tweezer. Definitely a great weapon in my ongoing battle with bugs. " — Tasia Bass  

Get it from Amazon for $9.95+ (available in three colors and multipacks). 

25. An AirFly Pro wireless transmitter  so you can use your Bluetooth headphones and stay cool, calm, and collected during a turbulent flight. 

a BuzzFeeder's AirFly pro plugged into a seat back screen on an airplane

The AirFly Pro comes with a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick start guide, and manual. Twelve South is a small business that has been creating innovative tech accessories since 2009. 

See one TikTok user using it with their AirPod Pros  here . 

Promising review: "Last year I splurged on some AirPod Maxes and for the amount of money I threw down on them, I was determined to get as much use out of them as possible and that included on plane rides. With the AirFly Pro, I can connect my headphones via Bluetooth and use the seat-back screen without having to fiddle with the free wired headphones they hand out that 1.) have horrible sound quality and 2.) don't fit my ears in the slightest (I swear my ear canals are tiny or something??)." — Chelsea Stuart

Get it from Amazon for $54.99+ (available in four options and two colors).

26. A set of Sea Bands  that uses acupressure to keep motion sickness at bay. So when things get to rocking, hopefully, you won't have to go knocking on the bathroom door.

Reviewer with gray band on their wrist

Promising review: "I borrowed these from my mom right before a 10-hour flight and they were exactly what I needed. I get really bad motion sickness even in cars, so a long flight is barely short of torture for me. But these helped so much that I ended up keeping them (sorry mom) for all my flights. Really simple to use: just slip the bands on your wrist with the ball facing your wrist. I put one on both wrists before my flights and then go to sleep. When I land, I am totally fine and don't have to worry about the after effects of motion sickness anymore!" — Tasia Bass

Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.53+  (available in various colors).

27. A pack of  laundry soap sheets  so you can wash your outfits on longer vacations, allowing you several uses and saving room in your luggage.  

collection of shaving sheets, body wash sheets, and shampoo sheets

Promising review: "I travel just about any chance that I get and found a WHOLE lot of success with these little laundry sheets on an almost-three-weeks European vacation this summer where I carried on only and rewore outfits several times." — Elizabeth Lilly

Get 50 sheets from Amazon for $13.21 .

28. A pair of Beats headphones that are not only noise-canceling — allowing you to tune out out the world while you sink into Beyonce's Cowboy Carter album — but also have a long battery life that will last even a trip halfway across the world. 

Writer wearing headphones while sitting in a room

Promising review: "I am not a great flyer. So instead of dealing with people trying to chat with me when all I want to do is calm myself, I slip these on and hear nothing but soft classical music and opera songs. They are great at drowning out everything (even the airplane engine was a low hum with these on!!) which is why I find myself wearing them more often than not. Seriously, you can find me walking (dancing) around with these on my head, just in a world of my own.  I own a ton of different headphones, and these are definitely in my top three. If Beats came out with a pair of gaming headphones, it would be a game-changer. They sit comfortably on your ears and the sound quality is top notch! They are definitely worth the price tag. Also, I am really bad at remembering to charge them, and although they say last 40 hours, I have definitely used them for longer without having to charge. In fact, on my last trip, they last four days without needing to be charged." — Tasia Bass

Get it from Amazon for $95.95+ (available in four colors and two styles). 

29. Or a set of wireless Bluetooth earbuds , with more than 200,000 5-star reviews raving about their high quality and comfortability. It's a top-tier option for someone looking for a pair of buds for a budget-friendly price.  

Reviewer image of two black earbuds next to their charging case

These come with a wireless charging case that provides up to 14 hours of charge (with the earbuds able to play for four-plus hours with each full charge). 

Promising review: "I was able to wear mine comfortably under my bucket hat while I slept on a very rocky bus ride from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. And while I was out exploring, the charging case easily fit in my coat pocket. I also use these on the reg in my everyday life to listen to Spotify and podcasts, and even talk on the phone. I have to charge them about once a week and always keep them in my coat pocket. "  — Elizabeth Lilly

Get it from Amazon $18.99+  (available in five colors).

30. A perfume atomizer  so you can take your favorite fragrance with you on vacation without worrying about if your bottle is over the 3-ounce allowance. 

atomizer pumping on a perfume bottle

Promising review: "^That's me pumping my signature perfume into one of these travel atomizers I've been using for about a year. It's great to just throw in your purse on the reg for a fragrance re-up throughout the day. As you can see, it's about the size of my thumb and therefore takes up very little room. Plus! It's smaller than most rollerball travel fragrances you can pick up. This first one is working so well, that I just have the other three in storage. But if this one bites the dust this summer during travels, I'll be OK about digging into my stores to use one of the remaining three...especially at this price point." — Elizabeth Lilly

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $7.99 .

31. A wide brim hat  that comes with matching heart sunglasses, so you an keep the sun out of your face in style.

BuzzFeeder Tasia Bass wearing yellow wide-brim hat and matching heart-shaped sunglasses

Promising review: "I love a good sun hat and this one is so cute. It comes with three different ribbons that you can switch out to match your style. It also comes with the matching sunglasses. I've been on a big yellow kick lately, so I just had to have this one. It fits well — and will stretch if you need it to — and the rim is flexible, so you can bend it whatever way works best for you. It also doesn't have that annoying chinstrap most sun hats have. I wore it for my birthday while walking around the giant zoo in Toronto (pictured above) and it definitely helped me keep from getting overheated because it was a really hot day. I also own it in pink and definitely going to go buy the other colors soon." — Tasia Bass

Get the hat and matching sunglasses from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in six colors).

32. A  universal travel adapter  because one of the most stressful things about international travel is figuring out which outlet works in which country and how you're going to charge your phone. This travel adapter covers 150 countries, so you're sure to have the right one. 

BuzzFeeder photo of the black adaptor plugged into an outlet, with an iPhone charger plugged into the adaptor

There are also two USB ports! 

Promising review: "While the listing says this adapter can't be used in South Africa, India, Switzerland, and Italy, I just used this on my Italian vacation (in five different hotels!) and had zero issues — in fact, it was a complete godsend. Maybe they've updated the design, as I've seen some other reviewers who visited these countries say it worked for them, too. I'm not a tech-guru by any means, but I was able to get it working the very first time I tried it, and luckily for my husband, who did not think to bring an adapter, we were able to charge both his phone and mine every night using the USB ports. Just know that it's primarily meant for charging small devices and not for powering up things like hair dryers and straighteners. I got it in black and it's super sleek-looking, too!" —former BuzzFeeder  Britt Ross

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+  (available in three styles).

33. A neck pillow you can stuff with clothing  ready to provide you comfort and help you sneak in even more clothes for your vacation and finesse your way to carrying more stuff on board. The listing says you can pack three days' worth of clothes in it! 

neck pillow stufed with clothes and looped on a suitcase handle

Check out a TikTok showing how someone used a similar neck pillow  to just take that and a personal item onto a RyanAir flight that was charging for hand luggage. 

Promising review: "Took it on my trip to Europe. I went carry-on-only and this tube was a true gem! I fit one full outfit in it and it’s so valuable when traveling with only carry-on luggage. On the plane I used it as an arm support. It’s really helpful on a 10-hour flight. What an excellent idea to take something out of the weighted luggage!!! I was able to fit three T-shirts, two light long-sleeve sweatshirts, and one pair of underwear. I usually like to have a change of clothes with me on the plane, especially on transatlantic flights, so I can change it on the layover, just feels fresher." — Happy Shopper

Get it from Amazon for $49.95 .

34. An airplane seat back organizer  for long flights where you want to keep all your essentials within arm's reach instead of constantly crossing over other passengers to get your items out of the overhead bin. 

reviewer photo of the organizer on the back of an airplane seat holding a laptop case, a bottle of water, and a bag of chips

Promising review: "Very useful especially when traveling with kids . Provided easy access and storage to things like water bottle, hand sanitizer, snacks, wipes, headphones. I didn't have to access my carry-on." — JJ

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 .

35. Plus a  drink holder  for the window seaters who never seem to have enough room on those tiny trays on the back of the airplane seats. It can hold your beverages, headphones, glasses, phone, and other essentials. 

the tray attached to a window ledge holding two drinks, a phone, and a pair of glasses

Heads up — you can only use this if you're sitting in a seat that has access to a full window!

Promising review: "I used this for the first time on a 737. It was fabulous! It didn't intrude into my sitting space nearly as much as I expected. Because the actual window is recessed from the side wall, this only sticks out from the side wall about an inch. If you're considering this, you likely fly enough to know that seats aren't always aligned with the windows. If your window happens to be right beside your seat or the seat in front of you, this won't be of much use. But because it doesn't jut out as much as I thought, you can use it in more situations than I expected. And when you can use it, it's great! I love not having to have my entire tray table down just to hold a 3-inch cup. My only suggestion would be to add a place to hold trash until the flight attendant picks it up. This is very small, very lightweight, and very useful. I'll be taking it on every flight from here on. " — JBC

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 .

36. A compact  eight-compartment pill organizer  so you'll have space for all your daily supplements and medications as well as emergency meds in case you have a tummy ache from indulging in too much fine wining and dining.

reviewer image of the pill organizer in green, full of different pills

Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." — Jacqueline

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $7.97 .

37. A  pair of sunglasses  that double as a bottle opener so nothing will stand between you and a fresh adult beverage on a poolside afternoon. 

tortoise-shell sunglasses with a bottle opener

Promising review: "Maaaannnnnn, I bought these for Cancun, and they’ve been used and abused here in the saltwater pool and beaches, but they are worth the money in my opinion! Yes they feel a tad bit cheap, but hey, they’ve opened so many bottled beer and sodas, and I like how they look. I’m happy with my purchase! Will be buying more to keep in my car and in my work truck." — Erik Perez

Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in two colors).

38. Some  anti-pickpocketing clips  that easily attach two zippers making it impossible to quickly zip open. It'll keep your belongings safer and hopefully the pickpocketer will be so frustrated trying to open your bag, they'll just move along.  

close up of the clip

Promising review: "Prefect for international travel! Easy to use and protected against theft/pickpockets. Used it on my recent trip to Europe!" — Rachel Bristol

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three color combos). 

39. A pack of LeakLocks Toiletry Skins  so helpful for your next trip — slide them on top of your toiletries so you can prevent them from spilling out in your luggage and all over your clothes. 

Blue stretchy silicone leak protectors over the lids of shampoo and conditioners

Rinseroo is a small business specializing in problem-solving cleaning, pet, and travel products. 

Promising review : "I used these on my travel toiletries on a month-long road trip. On several occasions, the toiletry lids opened, but none of the product leaked out of the toiletry skins. I was even able to pour the leaked shampoo back into the bottle. I rinsed out the skin and placed it back on for the next leg of my journey. These are my new travel must-haves." — Tyson Mohr

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $11.99 (available in two colors and in an eight-pack). 

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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20+ Amazing Travel Essentials for Women

I f you’re a woman who likes to be organized and put together when traveling, I got you. Here are my 2024 travel essentials for women. 

20+ Travel Essentials for Women

Organizational travel essentials for women, packing cubes .

Packing cubes are an oldie but a goodie when it comes to travel essentials. Depending on the trip, I organize them in different ways. If I already have specific outfits in mind, I will put 2-3 days of outfits together in one cube, otherwise I’ll organize them by tops, bottoms, etc. 

I got these affordable packing cubes from Amazon , but if you’re looking for something more luxe check out Beis, Monos, and Truffle.

Silicone Brush Holder

If you travel with multiple makeup brushes, you need this silicone brush holder . Keep your smaller brushes and other makeup bits together in this sleek, compact case. 

It doesn’t fit larger face brushes too well, but it’s perfect for eye makeup brushes, liners and other things that are easily lost in your makeup bag,  

Silicone Sponge Holder

A silicone sponge holder gives you somewhere to store your wet beauty blender and keep it from getting your makeup bag all dirty. Plus,  there’s small slits in it that give it air to breath, so it’s able to dry in between uses.

Cord and Cable Organizers

If you’re like me and travel with 101 electronics, a cord organizer is definitely a must-have. I have a larger one ( similar ) that I put all my cables and chargers in, and a smaller one for extra batteries for my cameras that fits in my purse. They come in all sorts of different sizes and configurations, so Amazon is sure to have one for you. 

Clear Jewelry Organizer 

I highly recommend this clear jewelry organizer . I’ve had other travel jewelry organizers and this one is my favorite. The clear pouches make it easy to see everything, and with the hanger you can keep it hanging within eyesight. I’m one of those people who if I don’t see it, I forget it, so this helps me remember to put on the jewelry I pack. 

Sunglass Organizer 

Make packing multiple sunglasses a breeze with a sunglasses organizer . It keeps your sunglasses safe and secure, and you won’t have to worry about them getting smashed or broken. 

Clear Pouches

Some good clear pouches are definitely a travel essential every woman needs. They help keep all your different bits and bobs together so they’re easier to find and keep up with. Whether you use them for toiletries, accessories, or medicine, clear pouches are very useful. 

Practical Travel Essentials for Women

Compression socks.

Another Amazon travel must-have are compression socks. If you’re taking a long-haul flight, they help stimulate your circulation which can help prevent blood clots. They come in a variety of styles, colors, and compression strengths. Comrad compression socks are my favorites because they come in a bunch of cute patterns. 

Belt bag, fanny pack, whatever you want to call it, these bags are super convenient to have when traveling. Clip one around you to keep your wallet, phone, passport, and other small essentials all together.

Having access to these items without having to dig through a larger bag or take off your backpack is what makes them great. Plus, if you’re traveling with other people, you can leave your larger bags with them, and have everything you need across your chest or waist.

I love my Lululemon belt bag , but these are also cute: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

Luggage Scale

If you’re typically an over packer, you need an electronic luggage scale . You just simply hook it around the handle of your suitcase and lift to get the weight. No more awkwardly unpacking your suitcase at the check in counter!

Compact Electric Toothbrush

Ever since starting to use an electric toothbrush, I never feel like I get the same kinda clean with a standard toothbrush. That being said, my Philips toothbrush isn’t the most travel friendly, so I got this travel electric toothbrush from Amazon . I like it, but it’s not the most convenient because you have to disassemble it to put it back in the case. 

Instead, I recommend getting this PHILIPS One by Sonicare toothbrush , which I will be upgrading to soon myself. 

Passport Holder

There are all kinds of passport holders. Some have space for your boarding pass and credit cards while others are simply a decorative cover. My friend gifted me this passport holder which has a spot for your covid vaccine card and a couple of cards.

Clear Luggage Covers

If you have lighter colored suitcases, luggage covers are a must to keep them from getting horribly dirty and scuffed. Just make sure to check the dimensions and which side the side luggage handle opening is. I use these covers for my Monos suitcases .

Carry-on Backpack

A good travel backpack can be used for a short, weekend trip or as a personal item when flying. This backpack from Amazon went viral awhile back, and boasts plenty of storage in a compact body. It also comes in a variety of cute colors. 

Light up Travel Mirror

My friend Brooke laughs when I pull out my travel mirror , but it’s super useful when you have a room full of girls and limited mirrors and getting ready space. I’ve also used it to get ready on a train while traveling from Barcelona to Madrid. 

Travel Door Lock

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group of gals, a travel door lock is one of the top travel essentials for women. Give yourself some peace of mind knowing that you’ve made your room or accommodation extra secure. 

Touchland Hand Sanitizer

When I tell you the Touchland hand sanitizers are the best, they are the BEST. Whenever I pull one out people always ask me, “What is that?” They smell so good, and their slim profile and minimalistic design makes them pleasantly aesthetic. 

If you have trouble sleeping with lights on, a good eye mask is definitely something you need to pack. Amazon has plenty of options like this silk eye mask or this eye mask that is great for those who have lash extensions or wear falsies.

Electronic Travel Essentials for Women

Bluetooth dongle.

If you use any kind of wireless headphones, this bluetooth dongle is a must when it comes to flying. Plug it into the jack for the inflight entertainment, and pair it with your headphones. No more sad airline headphones with poor audio quality. 

Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling out of the country, you’re more than likely going to need a travel adapter . I like ones that have multiple ports like this one so I can charge all my different devices without needing a bunch of different converters. 

3-in-1 Wireless Charger 

Planes typically give you one usb port to charge your devices while traveling, which can be a pain when you have multiple items that need to be charged. 

With this 3-in-1 wireless charger , you can charge your headphones, smart watch, and phone all together. It folds up nicely, into a compact, small square which makes it easy to toss in your carry on bag or backpack.

There’s nothing worse than your phone going dead in the middle of an outing; especially, while traveling. You use it to navigate, to take pictures and videos, request an Uber, etc. With a power bank you can ensure your phone stays ready to capture memories and more. 

Travel Tripod with Bluetooth Remote 

Whether you’re a solo traveler or want to be able to get some group pics without bothering others, this travel tripod from Amazon is the perfect travel accessory. 

It easily fits in most backpacks and larger purses, and comes with a bluetooth remote so you don’t have to run back and forth while trying to get some pictures or videos. 

Noise-canceling Headphones

Want to avoid having to listen to that baby in 24D screaming its head off? Or simply want to block out unnecessary noise? Get yourself a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. 

I have the AirPods Pro which are pretty good at keeping out outside noise for earbuds. However, if you prefer an over-the-ear option check out the AirPod Maxs , Sony WH1000XM4 Wireless Headphones , or Bose QuietComfort Headphones .

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Japan Travel Guide 2024: The Up-to-Date Budget-Friendly Manual & Travel Tips with Essential Maps and Photos (First Edition) (The Complete 2024 Travel Guide)

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Japan Travel Guide 2024: The Up-to-Date Budget-Friendly Manual & Travel Tips with Essential Maps and Photos (First Edition) (The Complete 2024 Travel Guide) Paperback – April 3, 2024

Purchase options and add-ons, japan adventure updated 2024.

Ready for an adventure in Japan? Our beginners manual is like a magic map, filled with secrets and fun places that will make your trip super cool!

Why This Book is Your Best Travel Buddy :

  • Ever felt lost about where to go in Japan? Don’t worry! We've got you covered with the best places to see and fun things to do.
  • You'll find out about the coolest spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even in snowy Hokkaido!
  • Love food? We’ll show you where to find yummy sushi, ramen, and more.
  • Want to see cool festivals and events happening in Japan? We’ve listed them all for you!
  • Maps and photos? Yep, we have those too! They make finding places super easy.
  • Worried about spending too much? We’ve got awesome tips to save money and still have loads of fun.
  • Plus, we'll share Japan’s secret spots that not many people know about!

What’s Inside? Let’s Check it Out :

  • Tokyo Tales : Discover hidden alleys, giant robots, and yummy snacks in Japan’s buzzing capital.
  • Kyoto Wonders: Walk in beautiful gardens, see old temples, and maybe even spot a geisha!
  • Osaka Eats: Get ready to try the best street food ever!
  • Hokkaido Adventures: Play in the snow and see amazing ice sculptures.
  • Okinawa’s Sunny Beaches: Build sandcastles and splash in crystal-clear water.
  • Autumn Leaves and Cherry Blossoms: See Japan’s famous colorful trees!
  • Easy Travel Tips: Learn how to ride bullet trains and find your way around like a pro.
  • Festivals and Fun: Dance at festivals and see cool fireworks.
  • Budget Tricks: Save your pocket money and still see all the cool stuff.

Come on, Let’s Go!

Grab your copy of Japan Travel Guide 2024 now and start planning your most amazing trip ever. Japan is waiting for you with lots of fun, yummy food, and cool places to explore. Let’s make your adventure in Japan the best time ever!

Get your guide today and get ready for an adventure in Japan that you’ll never forget!

  • Book 1 of 2 The Complete 2024 Travel Guide
  • Print length 147 pages
  • Language English
  • Publication date April 3, 2024
  • Dimensions 6 x 0.37 x 9 inches
  • ISBN-10 180362826X
  • ISBN-13 978-1803628264
  • See all details

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Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Travel, Travel and Travel (April 3, 2024)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 147 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 180362826X
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1803628264
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.9 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.37 x 9 inches
  • #3 in Travel Tips (Books)
  • #30 in General Japan Travel Guides
  • #143 in Adventure Travel (Books)

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. 18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

    18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond. Whether you're headed out for a quick business trip, a monthslong world tour, or a laid-back weekend at the beach, our list of 2024's best travel essentials has you covered. Sure, some necessities are obvious — toiletries, medications, snacks, phones — we know you'll pack those.

  2. 45 Travel Essentials (That You May Forget to Pack)

    This thin, quick-drying, and easily packable towel is a travel essential. It's perfect for solo travel, outdoorsy trips, beach trips, and more. View on REI. Towels are bulky to pack and many hostels charge to rent them. So, a quick dry towel is ideal, especially for solo travel and backpacking trips.

  3. The Ultimate Packing List: 43 Must-Have Travel Items (by a Full-Time

    Travel Essentials We Bring on Every Trip; Baby Travel Essentials; Browse All; Gift Guides. 50 Perfect Travel Gifts; Eco-Friendly Travel Gifts; ... We also recommend using Cloud Storage to back up your photos, especially if you're taking them on your phone, just in case of theft! Phones are replaceable, but those photos aren't. So back them ...

  4. 137 Travel Essentials: A Comprehensive Packing List

    Lenses: Again, lenses will depend on the type of photo that you're aiming to get. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II can be purchased with two different lenses, or you can purchase the lenses separately. My Recommendation - M. Zuiko 14-150mm f4-5.6 for your everyday lens and M.Zuiko 7-14mm f2.8 PRO for a wide angle lens.

  5. The 35 Best Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

    Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray. $28. The Tower28 spray is our skin-care savior, and if you're looking to pack minimally for weekend trips, this needs to be in the toiletry bag. Perfect for sensitive skin, it's multifunctional, and a spritz delivers a refreshing dose of hydration and soothes stressed-out skin.

  6. 33 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack in 2024

    33 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack—No Matter What. An Esquire-approved packing list for every type of adventure. By Christine Flammia and Gaby Keiderling Published: Feb 29, 2024 1:00 PM ...

  7. 16 Travel Essentials From a World Traveler

    Millennial Essentials Waterproof Clear Passport Covers Set. Amazon. Buy on Amazon $8. Take it from someone who's had to replace a passport because of a mid-trip spill. Spend the $8 to keep your ...

  8. 18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

    Travel pillow. If we're talking airplane essentials, a travel pillow is at the top of our list (also great for train, bus, and car rides). With memory foam filling, a velour cover, and an ergonomic design, this one from Everlasting Comfort gets our pick. Plus, it comes with a sleeping mask and earplugs. Buy It Here.

  9. 13 Travel Essentials to Pack for Every Season

    Amazon. Buy on Amazon $30 $26. The one piece of clothing I purchased this summer that will still be a key player in fall was an oversized button-down. It's arguably the most versatile wardrobe ...

  10. Travel Essentials Photos and Premium High Res Pictures

    Conceptual flat lay of travel accessories. of 27. Browse Getty Images' premium collection of high-quality, authentic Travel Essentials stock photos, royalty-free images, and pictures. Travel Essentials stock photos are available in a variety of sizes and formats to fit your needs.

  11. Travel Essentials Pictures, Images and Stock Photos

    Browse 4,200+ travel essentials stock photos and images available, or search for travel essentials top view or travel essentials flat lay to find more great stock photos and pictures.

  12. 22 Travel Essentials to Pack for Your Next Trip

    Primera Clean Berry Lip Mask. $20 at Sephora. A good lip balm will go a long way. And the humectants in this lip mask ensure that your lips stay comfy whether you're in the sky or already landed ...

  13. 25 Travel Essentials for Women

    The perfect travel gadget for any woman on the go. 17. The Upwade USB Extension Cord. By: Melissa of the Family Voyage (Check her out on Instagram and Facebook) The Upwade USB extension cord is one of those must-have, travel essentials for Europe and beyond. We're currently on a family gap year trip around the world.

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  15. Ultimate Packing List Travel Essentials From a Travel Blogger

    That concludes all the essentials I will not travel without. Depending on the destination, I sometimes add a raincoat, hiking boots, snow gear, etc. If you want to see more detailed packing guides, you can find them here. If you have any questions or suggestions on something that I should try adding to my essential travel list, let me know!

  16. Travel Essentials List: 30 MUST-HAVE Items to Carry-On

    1. Pack Your Passport & Official Government ID. This travel essential is a no-brainer. You need your passport to travel internationally and some form of government-issued ID when traveling domestically. Keep these items in an easily accessible but safe place in your carry-on bag. Consider your passport your golden ticket.

  17. 14 Carry-on Packing Tips From a Travel Writer

    Fjallraven Women's Kanken Hip Pack. Amazon. Buy on Amazon $55 $32. I'm a huge fan of Fjallraven travel bags because of their timeless designs and practicality. Made with 100 percent vinylon ...

  18. 22 Travel Essentials You Should Pack For Your Next Trip

    Electronics To Bring On Your Trip. 1 - Portable Cell Phone Charger — Taking pictures, getting directions via Maps, translating languages and currency, updating your Facebook page … your smart phone is like the swiss army knife of travel tools! Don't get stuck with a dead battery, pack a portable cell phone charger and extra charging cord to make sure you can always stay connected.

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    Culture & Life. Travel. the week recommends. 8 small travel essentials that make a big difference. Foot hammocks and facial sprays add comfort to long flights. Pack these carry-on items to stay ...

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  24. What Are Travel Essentials? (with pictures)

    Small comfort items, such as back or neck pillows, earplugs and face masks, or lightweight towels can greatly ease the stress of travel, especially air travel. Passports are essential travel documents. Appropriate clothes and shoes are also travel essentials. Anyone planning to hike or backpack should bring foot gear suitable for walking, and ...

  25. 23 Travel Essentials Our Editors Swear By

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  26. 39 Travel Products You'll Probably Want For Your Trip

    BuzzFeed Staff. 1. A marble compact contact lens case that might make you feel a little more secure. It comes with a tube you can use to hold the solution and a contact remover tool — all in ...

  27. 20+ Amazing Travel Essentials for Women

    Whether you're traveling solo or with a group of gals, a. travel door lock. is one of the top travel essentials for women. Give yourself some peace of mind knowing that you've made your room ...

  28. The 10 Best Crossbody Bags For Travel 2024

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  30. Japan Travel Guide 2024: The Up-to-Date Budget-Friendly Manual & Travel

    Japan Travel Guide 2024: The Up-to-Date Budget-Friendly Manual & Travel Tips with Essential Maps and Photos (First Edition) (The Complete 2024 Travel Guide) Paperback - April 3, 2024 . by Kaiyo Takumi (Author) 5.0 out of 5 stars 46. Book 1 of 2: The Complete 2024 Travel Guide . See all formats and editions ...