Traveling abroad is truly one of the joys of life! We do all we can to make these trips a wonderful, fun, and relaxing getaway. Having the right travel essentials when you visit another country can make the difference between a stressful journey and a fantastic experience. These ten items have proven themselves indispensable for any world traveler.
1. Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports
A quality universal adapter is non-negotiable in our interconnected world. Look for one that covers multiple plug types and includes USB-A and USB-C ports. This single device eliminates the need to carry multiple chargers and ensures you can power your devices anywhere in the world. Definitely keep this in your carry-on luggage.
2. Portable Power Bank
Dead batteries are a traveler’s nightmare, especially when navigating unfamiliar cities or accessing boarding passes. A high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh or Higher) can charge your smartphone multiple times and keep tablets running for days. Choose one with fast-charging capabilities and multiple ports. If you will be carrying it around all day during your touring, definitely choose one that is thin and lightweight.
3. Packing Cubes
These organizational game-changers transform chaotic suitcases into well-ordered systems. Packing cubes compress clothing, separate clean from dirty items, and make unpacking effortless. They’re particularly valuable for multi-destination trips where you’re constantly packing and unpacking. Just watch the weight of your suitcase—using these makes it all too easy to overpack and go over the weight restrictions.
4. Ziploc bags
Bringing two or three of a couple different sizes of these has proven to be a great idea on many a trip. They take up almost no space, so they’re easy to keep in your carry-on or day pack. You’ll be glad you have them when you’ve got a wet or dirty item of clothing, a toiletry item that leaks but you still need to use, someone needs a vomit bag, etc.
5. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Unless you travel in First or Business Class, bringing quality noise-canceling headphones are worth their weight in gold for frequent long-haul travelers. They block out crying babies, engine noise, and chatty passengers while delivering superior sound quality for music, podcasts, or calls. So much better than the free ones you get in the Economy section. If you want to also use them for watching movies on the plane’s entertainment system, pack an AirFly Transmitter, too.
6. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife
A compact multi-tool serves dozens of functions: opening bottles, cutting fruit, tightening screws, or handling unexpected repairs. The versatility of having multiple tools in one small package has saved us in countless travel situations. Just remember to pack it in your checked luggage for air travel.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while traveling is crucial, but buying bottled water constantly is expensive and environmentally unfriendly. A reusable bottle with built-in filtration lets you safely drink tap water in most destinations. We recommend a 16 oz size, as it’s portable enough for travel and not so large that a full one weighs down your day pack.
8. Travel-Sized First Aid Kit
Minor injuries and ailments don’t take vacation breaks. A compact first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, allergy medications, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications can prevent small problems from becoming major disruptions. It will save you from having to find a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place or late at night.
9. Travel Toilet Paper
A few small packages of these will definitely save you from a variety of uncomfortable and dire situations abroad. Even if your hotel or vacation rental has plenty of TP, the restrooms at a train station, a museum, a restaurant, a hiking trail, or a public toilet may not have any at all. Keep one in your carry-on, one in your day pack, and a spare one in your luggage.
10. Travel Document Organizer
Keeping passports, tickets, insurance cards, and important documents organized and accessible reduces stress and saves time at checkpoints. A dedicated travel wallet or organizer with RFID blocking protects against electronic pickpocketing while keeping everything in one secure location.
The Bottom Line
The best travel gear is the gear you actually use. These ten must-haves have proven their worth across different travel styles, destinations, and situations. While you might not need every item for every trip, having these basics ensures you’re prepared for unexpected adventures that make travel memorable. Remember, the goal isn’t to pack everything possible, but to pack smart and travel confidently. Bon voyage!