list of essential travel items

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

10 Secrets I Learned Working in a Hotel

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Greece: 6-Night Athens, Mykonos & Santorini...

TripCompanion Tours

Poconos: 3 Nts in Garden of...

ResortsAndLodges.com

10-Night Mediterranean Cruise From Barcelona to...

Norwegian Cruise Line

Trending on SmarterTravel

Protect Your Trip »

Vacation packing list: 27 essentials for any trip.

This vacation packing list covers the major essentials you don't want to forget.

Vacation Packing List

Getty Images

Make sure you have everything you need for your next getaway.

While every vacation packing list ultimately looks different based on a variety of factors – the destination, traveler(s), budget and more – consider this guide a jumping-off point for the must-haves. You can also scroll down to More Vacation Packing Lists to see recommendations for specific trips.

Vacation packing list

For the journey, for the vacation.

Courtesy of Coolife

Before your adventure begins, you'll want to decide what type of bag(s) to pack. To determine the type of luggage you'll need, consider:

• How many days will you be traveling? If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag ) should be sufficient.  
• Who are you traveling with? Determine if you can combine your belongings to avoid unnecessary checked luggage fees. If traveling with children who can help carry bags, consider some kids luggage they'll be excited to carry or roll along. 
• What type of climate(s) will you be in? For cold weather vacations, you might consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . 
• What are the baggage restrictions for your mode of travel? Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.
• What kind of clothing will you need? Is this a casual trip or will you need formalwear for dinners and other gatherings? If you'll need the latter, you might want to purchase a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing. 

Packing cubes

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

To maximize suitcase space and stay organized, invest in at least one set of packing cubes. Travel experts recommend any of the packing cubes by Eagle Creek , as well as this cheap, quality set on Amazon . For more options, check out The Best Packing Cubes, Chosen by Travel Experts .

Credit cards

When traveling, it's good to have at least two credit card options with you. That way, if there are any issues with one card (or maybe a merchant doesn't accept American Express or Discover, a common occurrence when traveling abroad), you've got a backup payment option. It's also helpful in the event your credit card gets compromised and subsequently locked.

Read: The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel documents

Having your boarding pass and personal identification is essential no matter where you're traveling. For international travel, you'll want a passport wallet for your passport along with any visa or customs forms you may need. Be sure to keep these documents either on your body or in your personal item that you place in under the seat in front of you on the plane (not in the overhead bin, where you may not always have access).

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Whether it's a long flight, train ride or car trip, dozing off without support can be a literal pain in the neck. Depending on what's comfortable for you, the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the Trtl Travel Pillow are two of the top U.S. News travel pillows . If you're short on space, you may want to consider the multitasking Tube Travel Neck Pillow , which doubles as a packing cube.

Water bottle

Staying hydrated while on the go is essential, and traveling with a reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly way to do it. The LifeStraw Go is dishwasher-safe (when you remove the filter) and made of BPA-free plastic; the flip-straw has a two-step filter to trap bacteria and more. To keep your water cold for hours, the YETI Rambler has a durable stainless steel construction in a variety of colors and is the perfect canvas for travel stickers you collect along the way. To save space, try the Nomader Collapsible water bottle.

Hand sanitizer and holder

Keeping your hands clean while traveling helps fend off germs and unwanted illnesses. Hand sanitizer is essential for any trip, and clipping a travel-size bottle of it to your carry-on or handbag makes it easily accessible when you need it. You can find hand sanitizer holders on Amazon or at your local dollar store. You may also want to consider some antibacterial wipes for your in-flight tray table and sticky situations.

Toiletry bag and toiletries

Organizing your makeup, hair products, personal hygiene items and shaving supplies in a quality toiletry bag – such as the well-rated Lug Trolley on Amazon – makes it easy to find your essentials while traveling. Depending on what you plan to pack, a hanging style like the L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag , with a removable shower caddy and built-in hook, helps to save counter space and is especially useful in tight cruise ship cabins. To easily see everything at once, choose any of the clear cosmetics cases from CALPAK , which are available in multiple sizes and color trims.

For air travel, you'll need to keep in mind the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: that all liquids, gels and creams must be 3 ounces or less and placed into a one-quart clear bag. You can find refillable and travel-size toiletries and reusable quart-sized TSA-approved bags on Amazon .

Read: The Best Toiletry Bags

Medications and first-aid kit

You'll want to be sure to pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with other medications you may need while traveling, such as Dramamine . It's also helpful to have a travel-size first-aid kit with Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and more.

Compression socks

For everything from long flights to walking miles exploring a new destination, compression socks can help provide additional support and reduce swelling. With varying levels of compression available, one medium-level option to consider is the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks – a U.S. News top pick .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Walking shoes

Courtesy of Birkenstock

Every journey includes a fair amount of walking, and nothing can put a stop to the fun like foot pain. Before you depart, be sure to invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes . For a sneaker style, the ASICS Gel-Contend is a U.S. News top pick. If you'd like a slip-on style, the Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer for both men and women provides comfort and stability, while being able to be dressed up or worn casually. For a sandal, consider a supportive option like the Birkenstock Mayari .

Travel purse/bag

One way to keep identification, credit cards and other personal information organized and protected while traveling is with a well-designed purse or belt bag , such as the Anti-Theft Classic Messenger or the Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack by Travelon . The Lug Convertible Carousel also includes RFID protection and can be worn as a belt bag or as a crossbody.

If you're looking for a fashionable bag that can easily go from day to night, check out the TUMI Voyageur Crossbody , which has a choice of leather or nylon construction with leather accents, multiple compartments and gold hardware. The sustainable and machine-washable Vera Bradley Utility Tote Bag is another great option, with a removable shoulder strap and exterior pockets for your phone and other essentials.

Read: The Top Travel Purses

Long-sleeved shirt

When you're traveling, there's a good chance you might be changing climates or find yourself a bit chilled from air conditioning. Pack a long-sleeve tee, such as the L.L.Bean Beyond Soft Tee for women or the Carefree Unshrinkable Tee for men . This basic wardrobe staple works as a shirt on its own, a base layer in colder weather or a pull-on style over a tee. For young travelers, consider the Kids' Graphic Tee from L.L. Bean for a bit of playful fun.

Button-up shirt

For a shirt that can truly multitask, pack a button-up shirt. A classic style – like a Calvin Klein shirt for men or a timeless white button-down for women on Amazon – can be dressed up for dinner or a museum visit, paired with shorts and rolled sleeves for exploring, or put it on with a bathing suit as a cover-up.

This wardrobe staple is a travel essential. Versatile black, white or navy tees can be worn alone, under a blazer or layered for added warmth as needed. Pack a few basic options like the cotton tees at Lands' End for women , men , girls and boys , then add a fun graphic tee or two.

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

A jacket that can fold up small to be tucked into your luggage is essential for any vacation packing list. From rain jackets to lightweight puffer jackets, choose the perfect packable jacket to keep you warm and dry in any locale.

Evening outfit

Even if you're going to the beach or planning a casual retreat, chances are you'll go out for a nicer dinner at least one night. Women may want to consider a black travel dress on Amazon , which can be dressed up with evening sandals and a necklace (or worn during the day for sightseeing). Men can invest in a packable travel blazer and wrinkle-free dress pants.

Reusable/foldable bag

Whether you're heading to the local market or going on a day trip, a packable tote like the CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag is ideal for stowing your daytime essentials and finds you buy along the way. If you're the type that likes to buy a lot of souvenirs from your travels, the Lug Packable Boxer is ideal to use for a day tote while traveling and as a personal item on your return flight. One of these reusable bags can also double as a beach bag. Or, if you want to bring a beach bag to double as your everyday travel bag, check out the best beach bags from U.S. News for additional recommendations.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Focus on the moment (and enjoy the visual later) with a digital camera like the Panasonic Lumix G100 4K . A mirrorless model with both the ability to capture video and still images offers versatility whether you want to record the waves at sunset or snap a selfie in front of a museum. To get creative angles or have a tripod on the go, the Joby GorillaPod is a flexible and bendable option for travel.

If you're an active traveler, a GoPro HERO9 is a must-pack item. It has built-in stabilization features, and you can livestream your endeavors, film video or shoot images with this waterproof design. For a vintage-infused photo gallery, the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid camera that allows you to store images on a memory card or print them directly from the device. It's the perfect way to document your travels along the way.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the oceans with reef-safe sunscreen . Depending on your destination, some places – including Hawaii; Key West, Florida; Aruba; parts of Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to name a few – have laws against the sale of sunscreens with reef-harming ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Many of the traditional brands of sunscreen have these ingredients, so look for an effective mineral-based sunscreen like Blue Lizard or Sun Bum .

In addition to sunscreen, a hat protects your face from the sun's harmful rays. What's more, it can be a fashionable addition to your beach attire. A packable style like the San Diego Hat Company women's large brim hat can be rolled and packed into a suitcase or carry-on, and provide a generous amount of shade at the beach, by the lake and beyond. For more recommendations, see U.S. News' list of the best beach hats .

While there's an endless array of bathing suit options, classic styles like a black tank suit for women can be paired with a long skirt to be transformed into an outfit. Or, a classic men's swim trunk can be worn with a polo top to maximize your vacation wardrobe. For the kids, Lands' End offers cute and functional designs for girls and boys .

Beach towels

Whether you want to add something soft to your favorite beach chair or you want to lay it right on the sand, a beach towel that repels sand and dries quickly is a vacation must-have. Consider a quick-drying oversized Turkish towel from Amazon or an attention-grabbing Lilly Pulitzer beach towel . You may also want to invest in a beach blanket .

Ideal as added sun protection or for walking through the air-conditioned corridors of a resort or cruise ship, a cute swimsuit cover-up is another packing essential. Some options include a chic J.Crew beach shirt , a stylish romper or a sheer La Blanca kimono .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Nothing says laid-back vacation like a pair of flip-flops. Havaianas has styles for the whole family , in an array of colors and prints to coordinate with your beach attire.

Water shoes

Cuts on feet from coral, shells or even glass can be extremely painful. To protect the soles of you and yours, consider the Native Jefferson shoes , available in both children's and adult sizes. Designed for street wear, these versatile shoes are also water-friendly, making them ideal for everything from strolling the boardwalk to tubing down the river. For a more traditional water shoe, check out the Keen Newport sandals .

Sunscreen and cover-ups may protect your skin, but the sun can really hurt your eyes (especially when it reflects off the water). Top off your vacation style with Ray-Ban aviators or a classic Wayfarer . If you're seeking a chic retro vibe, you can't go wrong with a Kate Spade cat-eye frame.

More Vacation Packing Lists

Check out these other packing guides compiled by U.S. News:

• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Packing List
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• Road Trip Packing List
• Camping Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag, a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote. She used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans
• How to Renew Your Passport
• TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Is Right for You?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top african safari vacations.

Christine Smith and Timothy J. Forster July 9, 2024

The 5 Best Memphis Tours

Gwen Pratesi July 8, 2024

The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags

Marisa Méndez July 3, 2024

Top Things to Do in Montana

Ben Luthi and Kelsey J. Lawrence July 3, 2024

The 4 Best Temecula Wine Tours

John Rodwan and Nicola Wood July 2, 2024

The Best Puerto Rico Tours

John Rodwan July 2, 2024

Amazon Prime Day Luggage Deals

Amanda Norcross July 2, 2024

Best Monterey Whale Watching Tours

John Rodwan and Ann Henson July 1, 2024

Sun Princess Review

Holly Johnson June 25, 2024

The 7 Best Key West Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 21, 2024

• Consulting Services
• Work with Me
• Accommodation Reviews
• Tour Company Reviews
• Transportation Reviews

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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! 

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.  

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 

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 –

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. 

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 –

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!

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!

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 –

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 –

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 🙂

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. 

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!

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.

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

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hi, I’m Sarah!

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…

Looking for Something?

Free e-book.

Follow me on:

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

18 Packable 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.

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.

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

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 Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet

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

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

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°

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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).

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)

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

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

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.

Last Updated on June 29, 2024

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

29 Essential Travel Items That Are a Complete Game Changer

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: February 17, 2022  - Last updated: June 20, 2024

Share with your friends!

Packing sucks.

You always feel like you’re forgetting something.

Or you over-pack and end up using only half of what you brought.

Packing for your next trip doesn’t have to be this way.

As a full-time travel blogger and after loading up my carry-on luggage dozens of times, I’ve learned to bring some essential travel items that keep me organized and play double duty so that I don’t bring stuff I don’t need .

Whether you’re packing for an international trip, a long flight or want to know what you should put in your carry on, there are some things you should never travel without . 

Being prepared also means I save money when I travel, since I know I have everything I need and don’t have to worry about buying things on the road.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the  best credit card offers  to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Avoid tourist tax and don’t pay double or triple what you should when you forget something simple like sunscreen! 

This list shares my most unique items that every traveler should have that aren’t so obvious but make your life so much better and easier when you’re on the move. 

You won’t find all the same-old, overdone, boring recommendations that are obvious like remembering to pack your phone charger or packing cubes.

TRAVEL PRO TIP: Packing last minute? A lot of the travel items on this list can be found on Amazon. And if you have Amazon prime, most items will arrive the next day. Sign up for a free trial of prime here (and then you can cancel your membership before the month is over). 

Let’s get to my list of 29 essential travel items that will make your life way easier.

1. A Scarf With Hidden Pockets 

This super sneaky scarf is one of my most recommended travel must haves.

There’s a hidden zippered pocket inside the scarf where you can store cash, keys, sunglasses, a passport and even your phone if you want to.

It’s perfect if you’re traveling solo and want to have your valuable items hidden but easily accessible.

Or if you’re worried about pickpockets, this scarf is a stealthy way to hide your things.

It’s probably one of the best travel accessories for women out there.

The perfect travel accessory - discreetly hide your cash, credit cards, ID, jewelry and other lightweight items.

If you’re browsing a busy farmer’s market or at a crowded festival, it’s perfect for keeping your hands free and not showing off a flashy purse when you want to buy something.

Plus, it’s also the perfect air travel accessory, since it doubles as a small purse which won’t count as a personal item and it will keep you warm and cozy. 

2. A Stuffable Neck Pillow

A stuffable neck pillow is my favorite item for packing light and saving money carry-on luggage fees.

You can easily fit several articles of clothing into this soft, neck pillow shell, and it doesn’t count towards your carry-on luggage.

In the neck pillow above, I packed:

• One cardigan
• One light athletic zip-up
• Two t-shirts
• Two tank tops

So if you’re only traveling for 5-6 days, you could fit your entire ‘top half’ of your wardrobe in this neck pillow, and it won’t even be close to being overstuffed.

I demonstrated packing this neck pillow in my YouTube video about packing light (without feeling like you’re packing light).

Buy this neck pillow on Amazon

3. Soothing Tea Bags for the Plane

Speaking of air travel accessories that you might not have thought about…I always pack my own tea bags with me when I travel, especially on flights.

Just ask the flight attendant for hot water and brew your own.

My favorite is Eucalyptus tea – it opens up your airways and helps prevent your nose from getting all stuffed up.

It helps soothe your throat too.

My throat always gets scratchy from all the stuffy, recycled air on the plane.

A soothing tea is also one of the most useful things for traveling if you’re prone to getting sick when you travel. 

TRAVEL PRO TIP – If you’re an anxious flyer or have trouble sleeping on the plane, you HAVE to try the Sweet Slumber tea made with valerian root . This stuff will put even the most high strung traveler to sleep.

The main ingredient is Valerian root, which is also known as nature’s Valium.

And with some chamomile and lavender for calming, your slumber party is only minutes away.

If you can’t find tea bags, you can build your own or just pack loose leaf tea into a travel mug.

This is my favorite travel tea mug which comes with its own infuser.

So yeah, sleepy time tea is one of the most underrated but essential travel items in my opinion!

TIP: get immediate access to crazy discounts on flights (including business class) when you sign up for FareDrop here (it’s my current travel hack obsession ).

4. Solid Lotion Stick/Body Butter

Another one of my favorite items for travel is a lotion stick (instead of liquid lotion).

It’s one of the best products for travel because it’s not considered a ‘liquid’ when you put it in your carry on.

Plus, there’s no risk of it spilling or exploding in your bag.

Having lotion on you when you travel is always important, because your skin gets so dry from airplane travel or if you’re traveling in a lot of buses with the air conditioning blasting.

As this means one less liquid to pack in your carry on bag, it’s definitely an essential travel item for any trip I take. 

See also: 14 Brilliant Travel Hacks for Packing Toiletries

5. White Noise Machine

The sound quality on a white noise machine is so much better than anything you'll find on the phone apps.

No matter how comfy it is, sleeping in a different bed in a different location is never the same as sleeping in your own bed.

Using a white noise machine can help put you to sleep.

It covers up potentially weird sounds from your hotel room, and the variety of soothing sounds helps keep you asleep.

I like this compact white noise machine , which can also be hung.

I also like this one that changes color and doubles as a night light.

Read more: What to Pack for a Hotel Stay (13 genius ideas)

6. A Tassel USB Charger  

Ok, this is a cool travel accessory that you will absolutely love. The USB cable and cord is cleverly hidden within the leather tassel .

Just clip it to your purse or your overnight bag and it’s conveniently available whenever you need it.

No messy cords to untangle, this is one of my newest favorite items for travel. 

Keep it clipped to your purse or travel bag for those 'oh no' moments when your phone is almost dead!

7. Microfiber Travel Towel 

This is another one of those essential travel items that have a dual purpose.

First, being microfiber, this towel will be fast drying, which is important when you’re on the move.

The one I have is barely even damp by the time I’m done drying myself off.

Plus, if you’re traveling on a budget, I find that cheap hotel rooms have the worst towels that don’t really absorb.

And since they’re so compact, they make the perfect air travel accessory since it can double as a blanket when you need it. 

Doubles as a blanket on the plane/train and also great if you're sensitive to the hotel towels that use too much bleach.

8. Compression Bags 

Wondering how to pack your clothes for travel? Compression bags are the way to go.

Everyone loves travel cubes these days, but compression bags are so much better.

All you do is lay your folded clothes inside, then roll up the bag to push all the air out.

You are then left with super flat clothes that take up 50% less space.

They’re great for saving space and staying organized.

Plus, they’re clear -making your airport security experience go much more smoothly than the cubes which are usually opaque.

Honestly, they’re one of the most useful things for travelling I’ve come across in a long time. 

However, if you DO prefer packing cubes, I also use this set which have a compression component built in to them.

These cubes really are the best of both worlds.

Have a 15 lbs (7kgs) weight limit for your carry-on luggage? Here are 7 bags UNDER 6 pounds that we tested on multiple airlines.

9. A HeroClip Carabiner

This isn’t just any carabiner – this is a clip that hooks to almost anything, anywhere so you can hang your things and keep them off the ground. 

I use this to hang my purse off the table at restaurants and in public washrooms when there’s no hook on the door to hang my bag.

It even hangs off the hinge of the door if there’s no gap to use. 

It’s the perfect travel accessory to hang bags (backpacks, duffel bags, etc) off the floor when you’re traveling like when you need to change in a bathroom stall and there’s no hooks. 

You can attach a water bottle to your bag, or even at the gym. It’s a great ‘gear holder’ for any item, anywhere. 

These are so versatile.

Choose your HEROCLIP here

Keep your bags off the floor! Use these to hook your purse on the table, hang your bag at a public restroom when there's no hook on the door, anywhere!

Read next: These Travel Gear Essentials for Men Are Game-Changing

10. Luggage Tracker

Worried about lost bags? It’s an unfortunate reality that this happens, and when it happens to you it sucks. Especially when you’re starting your vacation.

Attach these smart luggage tags to your bags, and if they get lost, just activate the code on the website to start tracking.

Most bags are recovered within 24 hours.

Luggage trackers for half the price of AirTags!

Plus, you’ve got added security because you don’t have to write your phone number and address on your luggage tags, which is a dead giveaway that you’re not home to potential thieves.

If you’re a bit of an anxious traveler, these are definitely a must have travel item for peace of mind. 

11. A Legit Carry On Bag

Another traveller essential is a high quality and trusty carry on bag.

There are tons of carry on bags out there to choose from, but I have to include the two bags I use on this list.

I only fly carry-on and never check a bag, and this bag (pictured above) has held up great.

I’ve taken it on several different airlines and have never had a problem.

It’s small enough that I use it for a weekend getaway, and big enough for packing two weeks worth of clothes. 

This is the carry-on bag I use the most and has been featured on my YouTube channel!

You Might Also Like: 20 Things to Pack for An All Inclusive Vacation

12. Towel Clips

Towel clips are such a travel hack!

I use these at the beach, at the all-inclusive resort and on cruises!

You can even use them at the local pool or when you’re at the pool in Vegas.

They’re perfect for saving your towel on your lounge chair, so that you don’t have to leave items like sunglasses, books or sunscreen to save your spot.

I like these fun towel clips because they come in all kinds of fun themes – flip flops, pineapples, flamingos, etc!

Planning a trip to Mexico? Check out These 26 Travel Tips for Mexico You Are Guaranteed to Use

13. A Hanging Toiletry Bag

The #1 best-selling toiletry bag on Amazon! It now comes in 12 different colors.

This is one of those travel products that everyone needs, but no one likes to spend the money on a good one.

Well, my life changed forever when I found this bag on Amazon that hangs from a hook or a towel rack.

It’s roomy enough to carry everything you need without being bulky.

It’s perfect for when you check into your hotel and realize there’s zero counter space for your stuff.

Just hang it from a towel rack or even the shower rod and you’re good to go. 

14. A Multi-Tool That’s Safe to Fly With

This multitool is TSA-compliant.

Pack one of these TSA-compliant multitools into your travel bag and keep it there!

The TSA allows you to fly with a multitool in your carry-on bag provided it does not have a blade and has scissors less than 4 inches in length:

• “Multi-tools (multipurpose tools) with scissors less than 4 inches may be placed in carry-on bags.” – source: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all

This one is TSA compliant as it doesn’t have a blade. But it does have tweezers, pliers, a nail file, etc.

It’s perfect for those small, inconvenient travel moments where a little tool would come in handy.

Fixing jewelry, removing clothing tags or when you need to get rid of a splinter.

15. An Extra Long Phone Charger

Keep your regular phone charger at home, and pick up a 10-foot cord for traveling.

You never know where the electrical outlets will be in your hotel room, and more often than not they’re only on one side of the bed.

16. Insulated Tumbler

Comes in multiple colors, comes with 2 different lids, fits perfectly in cupholders. Simple, elegant and classy!

For road trips, camping, the beach, a cruise, an all-inclusive resort or any kind of travel, an insulated tumbler is a must-have travel accessory.

This tumbler has an insanely high amount of 5-star ratings on Amazon and comes in a variety of funcolors!

These are perfect at the all inclusive resort or when you’re walking around in the Las Vegas heat – this cup keeps your drinks ICE COLD (but can also be used for hot beverages)!

Use it for your poolside drinks and to stay hydrated all day long.

17. Bed Shelfie

Perfect for hotel stays, travel trailers, cruises, holding CPAP machines and staying at Airbnbs.

Don’t you hate it when you check into your hotel room and there’s a small bedside table or no bedside table at all?

This bed shelfie is the perfect solution.

Use it to hold your phone, drinks, books, glasses, anything.

If you travel with a CPAP machine, it will fit on the bed shelf, too.

A lot of people use these for their RVs and travel trailers and attach them to the sofa.

18. Fanny Pack/Belt Bag

Fanny packs (or belt bags depending which generation you’re from) are in and I am SO okay with this trend.

They’re the perfect size for carrying your essentials without being too bulky.

I also love that it stays close to my body for feeling more secure and keeps my hands free to take photos or hold a drink.

You can go hiking with them, or when you sit down at a restaurant you don’t need to set it down anywhere.

A good fanny pack has been one of my most useful items for traveling.

I love my black lululemon fanny pack. I wear it for all my Las Vegas trips (perfect for pool parties, too).

But this fanny pack comes in 18 different colors and is the perfect bag for a music festival this summer!

19. Vicks VapoInhaler

This is so handy to have on road trips or on the airplane for instant relief from the dry air.

It’s small and super stealth to use so no one will notice.

Check out Vicks VapoInhaler here .

20. Chub Rub Anti-Chafing Balm

This is the ultimate hack to staying comfortable in a warm climate.

If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, cycling or hiking on vacation, you need this chub rub to prevent chafing!

Wear your beautiful dresses and skirts without having to worry about any thigh chafing.

Once you try it, this is the summer travel accessory you won’t ever leave home without.

Try the all natural anti chafing stick here .

21. Bottle Protectors

No more wrapping your bottles in towels and hoping for the best!

Bring home your bottles of wine or liquor safely, securely and stress-free with these bottle protectors, also appropriately named ‘ wine angels ‘.

Grab a set of wine protectors here .

22. Slippers

If you’re coming back to your hotel room after a long day of walking and adventures, it’s so nice to take your shoes off.

But I never trust how clean the floors are in hotel rooms, which is why I won’t ever go bare foot and not even in my socks.

So I pack a pair of slippers to wear in the hotel room and problem solved!

These slippers have memory foam , so they’re ultra comfy for sore feet (and they come in 10 colors)!

23. An e-SIM Card

If you’re visiting another country, an e-SIM card is the easiest, most convenient and usually the most affordable way to get data on your smart phone.

Airalo offers data plans in 190 countries around the world.

All you do is visit the website, download the app, choose your country and the amount of data you need and activate your eSIM.

No need to pre-buy a physical sim card.

Plus, if you’re not sure how much you need, if you run out, you can easily add more with the press of one button.

As a Canadian, I’ve used Airalo eSIM cards in Mexico , France , Germany and the United States .

24. A Bag That Fits Under the Airplane Seat (Personal Item)

Airlines are jacking up the prices on luggage and carry-on bags. On short trips to save money, you could try and only bring a personal item that fits under the seat.

This bag is the largest one I can find that fit under the seat, but still holds lots!

I packed cowboy boots, a jacket, sweater, one pair of pants, two pairs of shoes and a few small travel accessories.

View the bag here in 20 different colors and patterns.

This is my number one travel bag. It's small enough for your second carry-on item (fits under the seat) but large enough to fit enough for a weekend trip. It has an internal wet pocket if you need to travel with a wet swim suit!

25. Luggage Cup Holder

Go hands free through the airport when you have your coffee, water and other small items - no spillage!

This luggage cup holder is one of the most useful travel accessories I’ve ever owned.

Slip it over the handle of your luggage, and you’ve got two cup holder or one cup holder and another spot to hold your phone or other small items that you need quick access to.

When you’re waiting in line at the airport gate and have a coffee in your hand and need to have your boarding pass and ID ready, this luggage cup holder is a life saver.

View the cupholders here (dozens of colors to choose from).

26. Toiletry Skins for Leak-Proof Travel

Grab these viral travel accessories!

These are plastic ‘skins’ that you slip over top of the tops of your liquids bottles (almost like a condom, lol)!

The idea is that they’re watertight and prevent a bottle from opening or leaking.

View the toiletry skins here .

I also love this set of LeakLocks® that were featued on Buzzfeed!

27. Airplane Foot Hammock

This foot hammock has been the biggest flying hack when it comes to comfort.

I sling it behind the tray table in front of my and now my feet are elevated.

This helps with circulation and my legs are so much more comfortable.

The foot rest is adjustable and it folds flat so it takes up no room at all.

View the foot hammock I use here .

28. A Flight Deal Subscription

What if I told you there’s an app that finds you crazy discounts on flights (we’re talking an average of 50-70% lower) – especially business class flights!?

It’s called FareDrop .

It’s an app (or desktop version) that sends flight deals straight to your phone (or email) based on your travel goals. 

After you sign up for your free account ( right here ) you simply set your home airport along with places you want to go.

You can sign up for a free membership, or check out the paid plans to score insanely low prices on business class flights.

I also wrote a full review and tips about using FareDrop to its fullest potential .

29. Universal Sink Stopper

Perfect for your hotel room when you need to fill the sink full of ice (if you don't have a mini-fridge) or if you have to do some quick laundry.

I always carry a universal sink stopper for hotel stays.

Here’s how I use it:

• Allows you to use the sink to wash some clothes
• Fill the sink with ice to keep your drinks cold.

Grab your universal sink stopper here

I hope you found this list of traveler essentials to be helpful. I have to say, these are my tried and true best items for travel and they’ve never let me down.

Packing is always a pain in the you-know-what no matter how many times you do it, so I find that list like these are super helpful to make sure you’ve pack all the essential travel items you need. 

More Packing List Posts:

• T hese Travel Gear Essentials for Men Are Game-Changing
• 14 Brilliant Travel Hacks for Packing Toiletries
• What to Pack for a Hotel Stay (13 genius ideas)
• What to Pack for Vegas – 15 Things to Bring (beyond the obvious)
• The Only Road Trip Packing List You Need: 16 Items to Bring
• 20 Things You Should Pack for an All Inclusive Vacation
• Day Hike Packing List | 13 Essentials for Hiking (& how to avoid extra bulk)

Do you have any other travel must haves? Let me know what travel products you can’t leave home without! 

Before you go…

If you want to stay up to date, get behind the scenes content, or connect with me directly – you can follow my YouTube channel , Facebook Page , Instagram or Twitch channel !

New photos, videos and live streams!

Liked this post? Share it with your travel buddies and save a pin to your travel boards so you don’t forget what to pack!

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Hey Alyssa! Super great post!! I live in Germany and travel a lot but am always looking for ways to fit everything into 1 small carryon bag with the strict bag policy on cheaper airlines in Europe. I am absolutely LOVING that hidden pocket scarf! Genius!! Don't know why I have never thought of that!! And the solid lotion stick is a must!! I like the solid shampoo and travel products from Lush too!! Anyways, thanks again for this awesome post!!

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

37 Published Articles 3322 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

Was this page helpful?

About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

Discover the exact steps we use to get into  1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, for free   (even if you’re flying economy!) .

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy  and  terms of service  apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

67 Most Useful Travel Accessories: Must-Have Travel Items 2024

By: Author Milijana

Posted on Published: October 11, 2023  - Last updated: April 25, 2024

Categories TRAVEL TIPS

Sharing is caring!

Wondering what to carry while traveling? Here are the most useful travel accessories and top travel items you need to have on your packing list to travel smart. Here are the things that make travel easier beyond traveling essentials!

AWESOME TRAVELER ACCESSORIES – Travel Must-Haves

If you are into a digital nomad lifestyle or simply into travel long-term, here’s a list of must-have digital nomad gear, travel supplies, and travel equipment. But if you are a seasonal traveler, the next travel accessories will make your travels easier and more comfortable.

It doesn’t matter if you work remotely and long-term travel is your lifestyle, or you take short business trips and prefer short weekend gateways to recharge your batteries in your leisure time but opt for distant exotic destinations only for your vacation.

What matters here is traveling . Even more, comfortable and enjoyable travel .

Therefore I am listing here the must-have traveling accessories and the best accessories for travel .

Here you will find must-have travel items and best travel items, top traveler accessories ( must-have travel accessories and best travel accessories, but also cool travel accessories and unique travel accessories ), and travel gadgets (must-have travel gadgets and best travel gadgets) every smart traveler has. In short, the things you need to take traveling.

Take a look at my list of the best things for travel, vacation must-haves, favorite digital nomad gear, and the best travel gear every traveler should have … to pack like a professional traveler.

Here’s my travel accessories list with the best items for travelers :

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. 

67 INCREDIBLY USEFUL TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL PACKING LIST  (2024)

BEST THINGS FOR TRAVELING: SMART TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND SMART TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Travel must-haves

Let’s start with travel essentials and must-have traveling accessories.

1. HAND SANITIZER WIPES

One of the cheap and useful travel items that can make a big difference to your health while traveling. Hand sanitizer wipes are one of those essential travel items and small travel things that make a big difference. Seemingly banal but one of the best items for travel health-related. They are the most needed travel accessories these days. Take care of your health, always!

2. FOLDING TRAVEL TOOTHBRUSH

A  small on-the-go travel toothbrush is an essential travel thing. The folding feature puts travel toothbrushes on the list of the best things for travel. Again, a foldable travel toothbrush is one of those must-have small and useful travel things.

3. TRAVEL TOWEL

A quick-drying and a space-saving towel is a travel must-have . Don’t bother with big fluffy towels when traveling. Instead, opt for a towel to go, a small absorbent towel, and a quick-dry travel towel. A microfiber towel is among my top 10 travel essentials! It served me well, especially on my long-distance hiking trips, such as the one-month-long Camino del Norte in Spain , when I carried all my stuff in my hiking backpack for one month. A lightweight and space-saving microfiber is one of the best travel items, I highly recommend! Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a lightweight microfiber travel towel you need to have. It is a great microfiber beach towel, an excellent microfiber gym towel, an amazing microfiber camping towel, and a great microfiber backpacking towel. Pack your small and fast-drying travel towel with you!

4. TRAVEL PILLOW

A good travel pillow is a must-have for travelers.  Scarf-looking and super light Trtl Travel Pillow is one of the essential travel items on long flights. This essential travel pillow is a one-sided neck brace, adjustable to your neck and head for maximal comfort. And what’s important, it’s an ultralight travel pillow. If you are looking for a tiny travel pillow and the best travel neck pillow for long flights, the Trtl neck support travel pillow is your best bet! Forget blowing inflatable travel pillows and check out Trtl Travel Pillow .

5. TRAVEL WALLET

Another super useful travel item is a multipurpose RFID-blocking travel wallet. This tri-folded RFID-blocking travel wallet keeps safe and well-organized your international travel essentials and valuables: your passport and ID card, and your credit and debit cards. Keep your valuable documents and cards safe, and get your RFID blocking travel wallet .

6.  TRAVEL SPACE BAGS

Travel space bags are some of the best travel products. Roll-up compression bags save space in your suitcase or backpack. Even more, good travel space bags protect and organize your clothing. I can’t image traveling anymore without using traveling space bags. Sometimes I use only small zipper bags to separate my tiny carry-on travel items. I can find my tiny travel products in a minute! Zipper bags are super practical packing travel tools! Make your packing easier and go for travel space saver bags. Trust me, space-saving travel bags are some of the best backpack travel accessories and suitcase travel accessories.

7. TRAVEL PACKING CUBES

You don’t like the sound of roll-up compression bags, but still want to keep your clothing protected and organized? In that case, these awesome travel packing cubes are for you. Travel packing cubes are some of the top must-have travel accessories! Travel packing cubes, with space-saving travel bags, are the perfect packing tools for travel!

8. TRAVEL SHOE BAG

The waterproof and transparent shoe bags for travel separate your dirty shoes from clean clothing. A travel shoe bag is especially useful after hiking trips when you need to separate your dirty hiking boots from the rest of your clothing. Travel shoe bags are must-have traveling items! They are simple packing tools for travel, cheap travel accessories, and highly useful travel accessories!

RELATED READ: 15 Amazing Women’s Hiking Boots Top 18 Women’s Comfortable Sandals For Walking Best Gifts For Hikers Check out my Amazon Influencer Store for some great travel accessories ideas!

9. TRAVEL LAUNDRY BAG

Interested in some more top travel products? I would argue, that travel laundry bags are essential for travel! A machine-washable laundry bag that keeps the dirt and smell of your laundry away from your clean clothing is essential. Unnecessary to say, that this travel laundry bag is a highly useful travel accessory and one of the best backpack accessories and suitcase accessories you need to take on your travels with you.

10. TRAVEL SHEETS LAUNDRY DETERGENT

These eco-friendly sheets are must-have travel items if you are planning a longer trip. These detergent sheets are travel-friendly. They are not messy, unlike liquid and powder detergents. You can’t spill them. Just toss them in with your laundry and that’s it. Cut a sheet in half and use one half for smaller loads. And, use one sheet for larger loads.   Laundry Club Sheets dissolve completely and clean the clothes.  Laundry sheets belong to the most useful travel items! One package comes with 50 sheets. If you are making a shorter trip, you can pack just a few sheets in a Ziploc bag.

11. SHOE CLEANING TRAVEL KIT

If you prefer a tidy look and would love to keep your shoes clean when traveling, consider getting the Crep Protect Cure Shoe Cleaning Travel Kit . This mini on-the-go kit includes a brush, a microfiber cloth, and a Cure cleaning solution. It does an amazing job with suede, leather, canvas, and nubuck. I especially recommend the kit for cleaning white sneakers!

12. DOWNY WRINKLE RELEASE

Dislike wrinkled clothes when traveling?! Me too! But, I found a great solution for wrinkled clothes! Downy Wrinkle Release Spray  is a game-changer and my new favorite travel item. It fixes wrinkled clothing without ironing. Just hang your clothing, spray it, leave it for a few moments… and ta-da! Trust me, it is one of the most useful travel products ever! After trying it, you will probably want to get it for home use. Check out this bundle !

13. MINI TRAVEL UMBRELLA

This super small umbrella doesn’t take up much space in your travel bag but keeps you well protected from the sun and rain. One of the travel necessities and one of the extremely useful mini travel accessories when needed, agree?!

14. RAIN PONCHO

A raincoat is a small, cheap, and useful travel accessory that you can always carry with you to cover yourself in case of unexpected showers. This travel rain poncho is a cool travel item and an exceptionally useful travel item!

 15. WATERPROOF RAIN JACKET

Sometimes while traveling rainy days can’t be avoided by any means. Especially, if you have fixed dates for your vacation. If you don’t like umbrellas or don’t feel comfortable with a rain poncho, then consider getting this top-rated super lightweight Columbia’s women’s waterproof jacket or this Columbia men’s rain jacket These rain jackets are worshiped among travelers! After all, Columbia is celebrated as one of the very best travel accessories brands when talking about travel clothing and sportswear.

16. SLEEP SACK LINER FOR TRAVEL

Looking for more useful travel accessories and small travel items?! This fist-size and lightweight Vumos sleeping bag liner is voted as a piece of the best travel gear. It is especially beloved by outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping.

17. POCKET BLANKET

A pocket-size travel blanket goes on the list of great outdoor gear you must have. You never know when you might need an extra blanket. And this extra small blanket is one of those ‘good-to-have’ helpful travel items!

18. PASHMINA SHAWL AND WRAP

Pashmina is one of the favorite traveling items and one of the best travel accessories for women ever . I wear it as a shawl and a scarf.  It covers my arms when visiting sacred places and when a respectful dress code is needed. But I use it as a practical travel blanket too. My pashmina is my travel essential! My pashmina shawl wrap protected me many times from the coldness caused by the extreme use of air conditioning at many international airports, on buses, trains, etc. It is one of my favorite travel items ever! Women’s pashmina is at the top of my list of must-haves for traveling!! Please, add pashmina to your list of must-have traveling accessories for women. Trust me, you will thank me! 🙂

19. COMPRESSION SOCKS

Travel compression socks go on the list of the most useful travel accessories. They are the travelers’ must-haves for long flights to prevent swollen feet on long-haul flights. Travel compression socks are some of the best travel accessories for long flights! They are some of the most popular travel accessories for a good reason! Travel compression socks are the top travel essential items for anyone with blood circulation and swollen legs issues. Have you tried them?

20. COMFORTABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT TRAVEL PANTS

Light, quick-drying, and waist-adjustable travel pants are travel must-haves for comfortable travels. Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Pants provide maximum comfort to ladies, while Columbia Men’s Pants provide freedom and easiness of moving to men while traveling.

21. TSA CABIN-APPROVED COSMETIC LIQUID CONTAINERS WITH ZIPPER BAG

These travel liquids containers and zipper bags are allowed as airplane accessories. For instance, if you need liquid containers for your contact lenses liquid on your flight, these TSA cabin-approved liquid containers need to be on your travel essentials list. I keep my spare contact lenses and the liquid containers always with me! They are my essential carry-on travel accessories! Travel liquid containers with zipper bags are the small travel accessories you need to have!

22. PILL ORGANIZER

Care for your health shouldn’t stop when traveling. On the contrary, a new environment seeks adjustment for your body. Don’t forget to take your vitamins and minerals with you. When you are young, you might not need them so much. But sadly, as you age, they are a must-take. This tiny folding pill organizer for travel keeps your vitamins and medicine well organized. A pill organizer is a basic travel item, but one of those traveling accessories that can make your life much easier while on the road.

23. TRAVEL TOILETRY BAG 

How many times you have found that your toiletries have leaked out onto your travel clothes in your luggage? Well, this waterproof cosmetic organizer is another item on the list of useful travel accessories that make a big difference. Having a good travel toiletries bag not only helps you easily organize your toiletries but also protects your toiletries from leaking out onto your travel clothes. Dear ladies and gentlemen, this waterproof cosmetic organizer belongs to the best travel gear for women and men. Consider getting it!

24. SOLID SHAMPOO BAR FOR TRAVELS

Solid toiletries are among the best products for travel. If you travel long-term, one of the best travel items to always have with you is a solid shampoo bar. Ethique eco-friendly solid shampoo bar nourishes you and the environment.

25. SOLID CONDITIONER FOR TRAVELS

If your hair needs a great conditioner, especially in tropical climates, Ethique eco-friendly solid conditioner will do the work.

2 6. MENSTRUAL CUP

Talking about hygiene travel products and travel accessories for ladies, Lena reusable period cup is one of the top-rated women’s travel items. Ladies know how essential a good menstrual cup on travels can be! A menstrual cup is an essential travel item for women!

27. TRAVEL MONEY BELT

A travel money belt is among the most popular travel accessories. This comfortable and adjusting travel money belt with RFID block (an antitheft protection) keeps your valuables safe every moment. A practical and extremely useful travel item, enough said.

28. TRAVEL SCARF WITH SECRET HIDDEN POCKETS

Talking about women’s travel accessories and useful travel accessories, this travel scarf with secret hidden pockets happens to be one of the best travel items. Decorative and useful. Ladies simply love it.

29. TRAVEL BOOTS WITH SECRET POCKETS  

Another stylish and highly useful travel item is ankle travel boots with secret pockets . These boots are for hard-core travelers who enjoy adventures and want to keep their personal valuables safe. These boots are available in different colors, to match everyone’s taste. But, what’s more important, they keep safe everyone’s travel valuables.

30. SUNSCREEN SPF 50

Good sunscreen is a must-have travel item. This sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association. Please do yourself a favor and wear sunscreen.

31. COLLAPSIBLE WATER FILTERED BOTTLE  

This roll-up portable travel water bottle keeps you hydrated on your travels and takes minimal space in your travel bag. Quite a handy travel item, right?!

3 2. PORTABLE CHARGER

Talking about things you need when traveling, a mini power bank ‘on-the-go’ is one of the modern essential travel gadgets.  This Anker portable battery with an ultra-high capacity of 20100mAh is one of the top travel accessories and must-have accessories for travel. 

33. UNIVERSAL WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ADAPTER  FOR 150+ COUNTRIES 

Talking about must-have electronics, a good travel adapter is one of those international travel must-haves. Admittedly these days our phones connect us with our families, friends, and business more than ever. And to be connected to our families and business when traveling matters a lot. In that sense, one of the worst things that happen on our travels is not being able to charge the phones. And here is where this universal travel adapter for 150+ countries comes in.

34. GLOBAL DATA SIM

If you don’t have a super affordable global data plan and you don’t like the idea of depending solely on wifi when traveling, you need to know that this Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM card works in 64 countries in Europe, Asia, North, and South America. Hello, globetrotters, this global data sim card could easily become your new favorite travel item.

35. WIRELESS TRAVEL ROUTER TO MAKE YOUR PRIVATE SECURE WIFI NETWORK 

But if you prefer to use a wired network on your travels, you certainly want to have a secure one. This HooToo Wireless Travel Router is a light, small, and powerful travel thing. It changes wired networks into a private secure wireless network and enables you to safely back up your travel photos and enjoy media streaming. Looking for a  travel router Best Buy? Check out TP-Link N300 Wireless Travel Router .

36. PORTABLE USB SOLAR CHARGER

What about travel accessories for cars? This portable USB solar charger can sit on the dash in your car and recharge your phone and tablet when driving. One of the greatest car travel accessories ever.  But if you are into hiking, you can simply put your Anker USB Solar Charger onto your bag and keep charging it on the go.

37. TSA APPROVED SCAN-SMART ANTITHEFT AND WATERPROOF BACKPACK

If you want to avoid unnecessary hassle with airport security and also to avoid becoming a victim of theft on your travels,  you should consider buying a smart travel bag.   This SwissGear Smart DayPack is a  very trendy travel backpack and one of the most popular travel-safe bags ever. It is a top antitheft travel safe backpack and one of the best laptop backpacks ever. Certainly, one of the best traveling bags you can find on the market. Read more about SwissGear Smart DayPack here.  

38. UNIVERSAL TRAVEL CABLE AND ELECTRONICS ORGANIZER

Talking about practical travel accessories and things that make travel easier, consider getting electronics organizer travel accessories. This BagSmart Electronic Organizer is a travel charger organizer and electronics travel bag that  keeps your electronics and cables on your travels well organized. If you are searching for the best travel cable organizer, you consider getting BagSmart Electronic Organizer .

39. DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE

This small and super light luggage scale protects you from overpacking and paying extra for overweight luggage fees. A must-have travel item and a useful travel item.  If you don’t want to give extra money for overweight luggage, don’t think twice and just put FREETOO digital luggage scale onto your international travel list. A digital luggage scale is among the all-time best travel buys! Remember, small travel things can make a big difference.

40. ROLLING DUFFEL BAG 

Searching for the best luggage for frequent travelers? The best best gear for travel? It is hard to say what’s the best travel bag. But many travelers swear that rolling duffel bags are the best luggage for frequent travelers as they are light, flexible, and roomy and you can put more things in them than into hard suitcases. But on the other hand, duffel bags might be more vulnerable to theft than suitcases. In any case, this Samsonite Wheeled Duffel is a light travel bag and  waterproof travel bag you should take into account.

41.  TRAVEL SUITCASE WITH SPINNER WHEELS

A wheeled suitcase is arguably the best option for refined travelers and business travelers. A wheeled suitcase is the best gear for travelers who like to travel. in style. If you are looking for the best suitcase for business travel or the best suitcase for European travel, this Samsonite Winfield awesome suitcase is on the list of the best suitcases for business travel and the best suitcases for traveling to Europe. It could become with ease your best travel suitcase and your best business travel luggage ever.

42. CARRY-ON WHEELED BACKPACK WITH A DETACHABLE DAY BAG

Are you a light traveler who is looking for the best luggage to travel internationally with a mini travel backpack? Looking for one of those multipurpose travel bags you can easily carry around? This 3 IN 1 Bag goes as a wheeled bag, a backpack, and a day bag. A perfect travel bag, right? Perfect equipment for travelling, indeed! High Sierra AT3 carry-on can be rated as the ultimate travel bag, unique carry-on luggage, and coolest carry-on luggage. But in any case, it is the best-buy backpack. 3 in 1, remember?!

43. ULTRALIGHT BACKPACK

If you ask backpackers what’s the most useful travel item. They will say, a light backpack of course! It is one of the essential travel items after all. This TETON Sports backpack is one of the best lightweight travel backpacks and top-rated travel backpacks. 

44. LUGGAGE STRAPS

Darller Luggage Straps  belong to the travelers’ must-haves. The straps keep your suitcase tightly closed. You can also tie two suitcases together with them and keep your luggage together. Darller Luggage Straps come in vibrant colors, not only in black. The bright colors help you spot your luggage quickly at airports. There’s no doubt, that the luggage straps are among the best luggage accessories.

45. TSA APPROVED TRAVEL LUGGAGE LOCK

Some extra security gives peace to the mind. So consider adding this travel luggage lock to your luggage accessories . This small safety accessory can make a big difference on your trip.

46. PERSONALIZED LUGGAGE TAGS

47. MINI PERSONAL TRAVEL FAN

Gaiatop Mini Portable Fan is one of the best travel accessories you could wish for when in heat. It is a lifesaver in heat! It is a small and lightweight but mighty device. You can put it in your purse and use it on the go. It is one of the top must-have travel items in the summertime!

48. LIGHT LAPTOP FOR TRAVELLING 

For digital nomads and people who work remotely a light laptop is one of the business travel essentials. Light 13-inch MacBook Air is my working tool. The small and light 13-inch MacBook Air  fits perfectly into my women’s laptop backpack.

My iPhone XS Max goes in the package with my MacBook Air. My Macbook Air and my MacBook Air are my essential business tools. To sum up, my iPhone XS Max is one of my top travel must-haves.

50. UNIVERSAL WATERPROOF PHONE CASE

One of the must-have accessories for iPhone or whatever phone you have is this JOTO universal waterproof phone dry bag . You want to protect your favorite must-have travel gadget, right?!

51. LAPTOP STAND

If you work long hours in front of your laptop screen, this super lightweight, portable, and foldable support laptop stand protects you from neck pain and keeps your health. Amazing travel gadget for people who work remotely! And one of the top digital nomad accessories!

52. BLUETOOTH KEYBOARD 

Trifold pocket-sized iClever Bluetooth keyboard is another great travel gadget you can hardly resist, especially if you are a digital nomad. This is a great travel gift too. Hmm, Christmas is coming soon.

53. NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES

Noise-canceling Bluetooth Sony WF-SP900 headphones keep you away from sound distractions. A useful travel gadget. You can’t deny it, huh?!

54. EARPLUGS

 If good sleep on your travels matters to you, and I believe it matters a lot, then these earplugs for sleeping are a must-have accessory. Earplugs for sleeping, earplugs for swimming, earplugs for snoring … you name it. Yes, you need them. They are the absolute must-have items for traveling!

55. HEADLAMP

One of the cool items to buy for travel and useful traveling gear is a headlamp. Whether you like reading in your hostel bunk bed at night or as outdoor gear for camping and hiking, the DanForce Headlamp is a cool travel item and a great travel gadget to have.

56. MINI TRAVEL FLASHLIGHT

This super small flashlight is one of the most useful travel accessories you simply must have.

57. TRIPOD WITH WIRELESS REMOTE FOR TAKING PICTURES AND VIDEOS

A tripod with a wireless remote is one of the top gadgets for travel! Why? If you travel solo or want to have travel photos with your all family members in the photos, this Ubeesize tripod will do the work for you. A hint? It comes with a lifetime warranty.

58. CANON G7X VLOG CAMERA

If you are interested in high-quality travel videos, Canon G7x is on the way to becoming one of your favorite travel gadgets. Highly useful and essential for vloggers. And, it is another great gift for travelers.

59. GO-PRO HERO 7

Talking about gadgets for travelers, and when it comes to GoPro, a special introduction is unnecessary. The world has gone crazy for GoPro Hero 7 ! One of the best travel gadgets for adventure travelers and beyond.

60. TRAVEL FIRST AID KIT

This portable and lightweight first aid kit is one of the best travel kits. It has bandages, alcohol wipes , ibuprofen, aspirin tablets, antiseptic cotton, sterile pads, first-aid tape, scissors … Hikers, campers, …outdoor enthusiasts, and long-term travelers … simply adore it. You might too! 

61. TRAVEL DOOR ALARM

A small travel door alarm is one of those useful travel accessories that can make a big difference if you happen to need to sleep in a dodgy hotel.

62. SAFETY WHISTLE

A safety whistle is one of the cool cheap things to buy on Amazon , but it can be life-saving in case of an emergency! Your life is worth much more than the few bucks you are going to spend on buying a safety whistle , agree?! Buy it and take it with you. And let’s hope you will never need to use it.

63. PHONE SANITIZER WITH FAST WIRELESS CHARGER

Recent global events taught us that cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing are more important than ever before. This eco-friendly sanitizer cleans easily and safely a huge range of products: from phones, earphones, computer mice, and watches to USB sticks, car keys, makeup tools, jewelry, and more. It’s disinfecting everything. It is usable at home, office, and on travel. This easy-to-use sanitizer is undeniably one of the most useful travel items at the moment.

64. MEMORY FOAM SEAT CUSHION

If you are a digital nomad who works remotely, then you appreciate a comfortable office chair. This ergonomically designed gel memory foam seat cushion will make your back pain back gone or minimalized. It is great for traveling, office, home, driving (car seat), and even wheelchair use.

65. PORTABLE TRAVEL CLOTHESLINE

If you enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, boat riding, or traveling slowly, you would appreciate this elastic stainless travel clothesline with clips . Put the clothesline between trees, on the balcony, in an RV, or bathroom, and make your drying space anywhere. People who hiked Camino de Santiago , like me, know how useful this small travel item can be on multi-day treks. (Check out my Camino de Santiago packing list !) Hang your towels, socks, etc on the clothesline and get your clothes dry naturally! This clothesline is lightweight, easy to pack, and one of the most useful travel accessories for multi-day trips.

66. PORTABLE BIDET

This Portable Bidet with Travel Bag is one of the most popular travel items. Keeping good personal hygiene is important at home and on travels. The HappyPo Travel Bidet is easy to use. It doesn’t need batteries or a connection. You just need to fill it with water, squeeze the bottle, and voilà – a nice wide spray comes! It is small, handy, and easy to carry on. A portable bidet is a must-have travel item for people who like to feel cleaner on their travels.

67. PORTABLE ESPRESSO MACHINE

If you follow my blog, you know how much I appreciate good coffee. On my coffee travels around the world , I sipped fabulous Vietnamese coffee in Vietnam , enjoyed siphoned coffee in Laos, had authentic luwak coffee in Bali , cruised famous coffee houses in Vienna , indulged in Italian espresso in Italy, etc. If you are anything like me, you need a cup of coffee to start your day with. This mini portable espresso machine is a top travel item a coffee lover could ask for! It is lightweight, portable, and easy to use. This handy travel-sized espresso machine is one of the best travel items for coffee-loving travelers!

Hope you find useful my list of the best travelling equipment. You can use it as a travel checklist for packing your essential travel items and favorite travel accessories.

I did my best to cover travel gadgets and accessories, outdoor gear, travel aids accessories, smart travel items, best luggage for travel … domestic and international travel accessories. If you would like to add something to my list of useful travel accessories and help fellow travelers, please leave a comment or send me a message.

Happy and safe travels, always!

• Recent Posts

• Venice Bucket List: 23 Unique Things to Do in Venice - June 24, 2024
• How to visit the Basilica of St Mark in Venice Italy - June 11, 2024
• The 13 Best Things to Do in Siena Italy - May 31, 2024

Saturday 9th of July 2022

I was looking for ideas for gift basket for a coworker who is traveling across the country, and really loved your suggestions. It was the small ordinary things we usually overlook! Thank you

Graeme Stewart

Saturday 10th of April 2021

That's a lot of stuff to carry. I would reduce the bags to just one and save a lot of space and airline fees :)

You know that your phone has a flashlight right? That can replace the mini-light.

Otherwise, very helpful. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Stewart,

thanks for sharing your thoughts. I gave some options here, of course. Anyway, I still believe that a mini flashlight is one of the really useful travel accessories. It takes almost nothing of space and it can be helpful. It's mini. After all, we don't need to have our phones with us all the time. :-)

Thanks for reading and taking your time to comment! I appreciate it. Milijana

Tuesday 29th of September 2020

The portable solar USB charger is definitely on top of my list! As a travel enthusiast myself that is often found hiking or trekking, I can definitely soak all that natural energy and convert it into power for my electronics.

Great article!

Kim Goodwin

Thursday 5th of December 2019

Hey Milijana, You have given the quality information for the travel. It was helpful to choose the necessary gadgets for my trip. What I personally like in your blog is you've provided many safety gadgets. Keep on like these posts. I am waiting for more information post from you.

I am glad to read this. Thank you for your feedback, Kim!

Wednesday 4th of December 2019

Thanks Milijana for this quality post. Thumbs up!!

Thank you for reading and commenting.

I hope some of the travel accessories I've listed will make your next trip more comfortable, more safe, easier and more enjoyable overall.

Happy and safe travels, Milijana

27 Best Travel Accessories to Pack on Every Trip

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing lists will vary based on where you're going and how long you're traveling for, but the best travel accessories can improve every trip. From tech gadgets to keep your electronics powered up and luggage accessories that ensure you're not hit with an overweight baggage charge, having the right gear means a smoother journey, every time. Below, we've rounded up 27 essential items to pack inside your carry-on bag , weekender , or checked luggage . Consider these the travel gear staples to bring on your next trip—and all your future vacations after that.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Discover the best travel accessories:

A trusted tote, a travel toiletry bag, packing cubes, jewelry case, reusable travel bottles, a pill case, hydrating skincare products, a portable charger, a power adapter, a luggage scale, a luggage tag, an e-reader, a portable fan, a portable steamer, an eye mask, a neck pillow, compression socks, a blanket scarf, a crossbody bag, hand sanitizer and wipes, a tray table cover, a reusable water bottle, a passport holder.

• An umbrella

A tote is the ideal personal item —it's roomy enough to store all your odds and ends, and everything you'd want with you during a flight, and is usually pretty pliable, meaning you can squeeze it under the seat without taking up all of your foot room. Look for one with comfortable shoulder straps, should you overload it with snacks from Hudson News. A trolley sleeve is a nice feature, too, so you can slide it over your suitcase while cruising through the airport.

Browse more tote bag recommendations .

A Dopp kit is key to staying organized—and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Calpak and Dagne Dover for their water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. Depending on where you're headed, and who you're traveling with, you might want to opt for a hanging bag that allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

Browse more women's and men's Dopp kit recommendations.

Don't underestimate the power of a good packing cube. These small-but-mighty travel essentials help keep you and your suitcase a whole lot more organized. They range in size from small cubes meant for socks and underwear to larger ones for bulkier sweaters and jeans. You can also use them to separate clean and dirty clothes on your way back home.

Browse more packing cube recommendations .

A rule to live by: Never check your valuables, especially jewelry. Keep necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings safe and neatly organized inside a jewelry case. These durable, compact cases fit neatly in your personal item with enough room to store a few different jewelry options for your trip.

Rather than buy plastic minis of a generic shampoo and body wash, get yourself a set of leakproof travel bottles that allow you to bring your at-home favorites on the go. They're great for storing toiletries and beauty products, but also small items like jewelry or vitamins.

Browse more toiletry bottle recommendations .

Instead of bringing your entire bottle of daily medication or vitamins, pack a compact pill case that holds only as much as you'll need for the length of your trip. I always pack the Holii daily pill organizer no matter where I'm headed—it's small enough to fit in my Dopp kit and has enough compartments to separate what I'll need for each day.

Browse more pill case recommendations .

Even if you're not the type of person with a multi-step in-flight skincare routine , a few basics can go a long way in keeping your skin happy and healthy after a long day of travel (just make sure all your products are in a TSA-approved size). Clinique and Tatcha offer some great moisturizers that leave your skin feeling hydrated and plump. If your face gets a little bloated on flights, Peter Thomas Roth's Hydra-Gel eye patches are packed with collagen and caffeine to de-puff and smooth your under-eyes. Don't forget a nourishing lip balm , either.

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank—Anker is our go-to, but iWalks mini portable charger is a great option, too. These are both compact enough to fit in a small fanny pack or sling bag.

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labeled with the regions they are compatible with. (As for compatibility, it works with Apple USB-C power adapters; MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters; 10W, 12W, 30 and 35W USB ports; and portable power adapters.) We also recommend this Bluetooth converter, which lets you use your regular cordless earbuds to watch a movie in flight.

Whether the plan is to listen to music, watch a movie, or just drown out noisy neighbors, most of us won't board a plane without headphones—especially a pair that are noise-canceling. Make sure you have your go-to on hand, plus a pair of corded earbuds (if you forego the aforementioned Bluetooth adapter).

Read a full review of Sonos's first pair of headphones here .

Give yourself some added peace of mind with a digital luggage scale; it’ll let you know how much damage your souvenirs did before arriving at the check-in counter on the way home.

Browse more luggage scale recommendations .

Speaking of luggage, it's a smart idea to attach a luggage tag to your checked bag so you can easily track it. You'll have peace of mind knowing your personal belongings made it safely to the right destination.

Browse more luggage tag recommendations .

Even travelers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

Browse more e-reader recommendations .

If you're headed somewhere warm, or just tend to run hot, do yourself a favor and pack a portable fan. A lightweight, handheld option will give you the breeze you need, whether you're in the back of a crowded bus or van, standing in line at Disneyland, or kicking back in a beach chair .

Browse more portable fan recommendations .

If you're traveling to a wedding or heading out on a business trip, you may want to bring a portable steamer along to make sure your formalwear looks its best after you take it out of your suitcase. These editor-tested steamers aren't too bulky to pack and actually get the job done.

Browse more travel steamer recommendations .

All of those tech items mean you're going to have plenty of charging cubes and cables to keep track of. Save space in your backpack —and save yourself the headache of digging through your bag—by keeping everything wrapped up in a tech kit like the ones below.

Browse more travel tech organizer recommendations. .

For a comfortable journey at 30,000 feet—especially one where you hope to get some shut-eye—an eye mask is crucial. The soft, sculpted Mzoo contoured mask and the Tempur-Pedic sleep mask are popular choices amongst Traveler readers. These mold to fit to your face, provide total darkness, and stay in place throughout your whole flight. Sweet dreams!

Browse more eye mask recommendations .

Another comfort essential: a travel pillow . It can take some time to find the style you like best, and your pick might vary depending on whether you're in-flight or in a car. Two we like: The classic memory foam wraparound neck pillow, which can be tightened or loosened per your preference, and the space age-looking Pluto Pod recommended by contributor Juliet Izon .

Browse more neck pillow recommendations .

We love a good pair of compression socks to fight that pins-and-needles feeling that comes from sitting still for too long, be it on a long-haul flight  or a road trip . Our editors swear by socks from Comrad and Bombas—they're comfortable, stay in place, and help reduce swelling.

Browse more compression sock and travel sock recommendations.

When you need some peace and quiet, swap your noise-canceling headphones in for earplugs. Traveler contributor Karthika Gupta raves about Curvd earplugs for long-haul flights. As someone with claustrophobia, she likes that they help block out external sounds to create a controlled auditory environment, which in turn calms her nerves. They are lightweight, affordable, ergonomically designed, and, more importantly, noise-reducing.

For those who run cold, an oversized scarf will get plenty of use in transit, and can even double as a blanket. Opt for a quality material you can pack for years to come, like cashmere. These cozy wraps from Quince and J.Crew are so well-made and are a lot more affordable than most cashmere options on the market.

Browse more blanket scarf recommendations .

A crossbody bag comes in handy on every type of trip, whether you're sightseeing around London or exploring the Disney parks. These lightweight bags take up little suitcase space and keep you hands-free and ready to go for whatever is on the agenda.

Browse more crossbody bag and fanny pack recommendations.

As for general wellness, hand sanitizer is a must—buy a set and drop one in all your most-used totes and crossbody bags so you're never without. Wet Ones wipes are nice to have on hand too, especially if you're traveling with little ones.

This $30 airplane tray table cover has become one of my favorite in-flight travel accessories . It slides onto your tray table like a pillowcase, and completely covers the surface—so you can eat and work off of it without worrying about all those germs. Another bonus: It features four pockets to store essentials like your tablet, passport, water bottle, and phone. This means you won't accidentally leave your most important documents or electronics in the seat's safety manual compartment.

This might seem like a no-brainer, but don't forget to pack a trusty reusable water bottle , so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment). Our editors love these 32-ounce bottles from Owala and Hydro Flask—they're durable, easy to hold, and keep your water cold for hours.

Browse more water bottle recommendations .

Also handy: a high-quality passport case (bonus points if it has space to hold your credit cards) to keep your most important document protected. Made of genuine Italian leather, Cuyana's sleek passport case is a thoughtful gift for any traveler in your life. For a more affordable option, opt for this under-$30 passport holder with a built-in AirTag holder.

Browse more passport holder recommendations.

A travel umbrella

Depending on your destination, a travel-size umbrella might be worth the space in your luggage. And if you're driving, tossing one in the backseat is a no-brainer. Contributor Claire Volkman tested out more than a dozen options to determine which are the sturdiest and most compact—shop two of her favorites below.

Browse more umbrella recommendations .

• Hotels & Resorts
• Travel Guides
• Credit Cards
• Airplane Seat Switch Etiquette
• American Airlines Baggage Fees & Allowance
• Amex Centurion Lounges
• Best & Worst Days to Fly
• Best & Worst Days to Fly & Travel for Christmas & New Year's 2024
• Best & Worst Times to Fly
• Best Days & Times to Book Flights
• Best Seats On a Plane
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Flights
• Capital One Lounges
• Chase Sapphire Lounges
• Delayed, Lost, or Damaged Luggage (Steps to Take)
• Delta Baggage Fees & Allowance
• How to Avoid Airline Flight Delays & Cancellations in 2024
• How to Cancel an American Airlines Flight
• How to Cancel a Delta Air Lines Flight
• How to Earn Delta SkyMiles
• How to Earn United MileagePlus Miles
• How to Find Cheap Flight Deals
• How to Find Cheaper Summer Flights for 2024
• How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster
• How to Use Google Flights
• When to Book Christmas Flights - Best Travel Days for 2024
• When to Book Thanksgiving Flights - Best Travel Days for 2024
• United Airlines Baggage Fees & Allowance
• What to Do if Your Airline Cancels or Delays Your Flight
• Worst Seats on a Plane
• Best Atlanta Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Denver Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Car rental Companies
• Best Miami Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Orlando Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Phoenix Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Car Rentals
• How to Find Cheap Car Rentals
• Best All-Inclusive Cruise Lines
• Can You Bring Food, Alcohol, & Snacks on a Cruise Ship?
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Cruises
• Where Can I Cruise Without a Passport?
• What is Cruise Ship Tendering?
• What is Port Side on a Cruise Ship?
• Best Economy & Budget-Friendly Hotel Brands
• Best Mid-Tier Hotel Brands
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Hotels
• Choice Privileges Loyalty Program Review
• Hilton Honors Loyalty Program Review
• Hostel Booking Tips
• Hotels.com Booking Guide
• How to Find Cheap Hotel Deals
• IHG One Rewards Loyalty Program Review
• Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program Review
• World of Hyatt Loyalty Program Review
• Wyndham Rewards Loyalty Program Review
• Best Travel Products
• Destinations
• Family Travel
• Beach Vacation Packing List
• Best Beaches in Florida
• Best Ticket Websites for Tours & Activities
• Best Travel Tips
• Global Entry Program Guide
• How to Check Your Passport Application Status
• How to Make a Travel Budget
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo at Home
• Passport Processing Times - Current Wait in 2024
• Summer Travel Survey & Trends 2024
• Sustainable Travel Survey 2023
• TSA PreCheck Program Guide
• Travel Insurance Buying Guide
• Ultimate Travel Packing List
• Travel Credit Card Reviews
• Travel Credit Card Strategies & Tips
• Amex Platinum Card Benefits
• Amex Gold Card Benefits
• Best Starter Travel Credit Cards for Beginners
• Capital One Venture Card Benefits
• Capital One Venture X Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Benefits
• How to Use CardMatch
• Ink Business Unlimited Card Benefits

Get The Vacationer Newsletter

Get highlights of the most important news delivered to your email inbox

Advertiser Disclosure

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure : Jones-Dengler Marketing, LLC via The Vacationer is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 and the Best Vacation Packing Tips (Printable)

Before taking a vacation, it’s a good idea plan. In addition to planning your itinerary, you also need to figure out what you will pack. Taking the time to sort out what you need to bring before you leave is an excellent way to prepare well for your trip. If you haven’t traveled in a while or you feel like you’re always missing essential items when you travel, this travel packing guide may help. Are you taking a trip soon? Here’s what you need to know before you pack for your next trip or vacation.

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

Before you begin packing, it’s best to think more about the trip you will be taking. After all, not all trips are the same, and some trips may require different items.

Here are some things to consider:

• What bags to bring: Your travel plans and airline’s baggage policy may dictate what bags you bring. Knowing what bags you plan to bring before you begin packing is a must. That way, you can strategize and not overpack based on the luggage space available. 
• Number of travel days: You want to have plenty of clothes and essentials for your entire trip. Make sure that you pack plenty of items for the number of days you plan to travel. If you’re staying in a home rental with laundry facilities, you may be able to pack less and do laundry during your trip. If you prefer to pack light, check to see if you’ll have access to laundry facilities or if there is a laundromat near your accommodation. 
• The weather situation: You want to make sure that you pack clothes that will be comfortable for the weather. Check the expected temperature, see if there will be rain or snow, and let this information guide you when packing. If you don’t pack appropriate clothing and gear, you may have to spend money when you arrive or risk being very uncomfortable. If you have room, bring a compact umbrella.
• The type of trip you plan to have: Your planned activities and travel style will also dictate what you need to pack. If you’re all about comfort and hope to lounge around a lot, you may not need to pack many dress clothes. If you’re an adventure seeker who plans to participate in recreational activities, athletic attire and appropriate shoes are necessary. 
• What you can buy at your destination: Some items may make more sense to buy at your destination. For example, if you’re only bringing a carry-on bag, you might decide to buy a bottle of full-size sunscreen after you arrive. When creating your packing list, note items that you can easily buy at your destination to avoid wasting space.

The Vacationer Tip

Review your airline’s baggage policies before packing. Here are polices for some of the top airlines.

– American Airlines Baggage Policy – Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy – Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy – United Airlines Baggage Policy

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

When it comes time to pack for your trip, take some time to think about which bag each item will go in; for example, if you’re planning to check luggage, some things may make more sense to go in your checked bag rather than your carry-on bag. Additionally, some items may not be allowed in your carry-on bag—such as full-sized liquid products.  

If you take any medication or have other essential items that you’re packing, those items should stay close to you—such as in a carry-on bag or personal item, like a backpack or purse. Checked bags may get lost or delayed, and you don’t want to be without essential medications or other necessary items. If you’re packing medications, the TSA recommends they be clearly labeled. 

As you pack your carry-on bag, It’s also a good idea to bring at least one change of clothes with you. If something happens to your checked baggage, you’ll be thankful that you have some clothes to change into after traveling. 

If you’re traveling with a laptop or another electronic device, like an iPad, keep those items in an easy-to-access place (like upfront or in a laptop pocket). These items will need to be removed from your carry-on bag, purse, or backpack during security screening. If they’re not accessible, it will take you longer to get through security, and you’ll hold up the line.

Further Reading: Carry-On Essentials for Flights and Best Carry-On Luggage

Packing Liquids

As you prepare for your trip, don’t forget to consider which liquids you’ll need to bring. If you’re bringing some checked luggage, you’ll need to consider which liquid items will go in your checked bag vs your carry-on luggage. 

If you plan to pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. They also need to fit in one quart-sized resealable bag. If you’re traveling with multiple people, each person can have one quart-sized resealable bag with appropriately sized liquids. Ensure that all containers are sealed well, so you don’t have a mess all over your suitcase and belongings. 

When you go through the security screening process at the airport, you’ll need to remove your bag of liquids and place it in a bin; You do not have to remove your liquids if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . To conserve space, focus on packing liquids that you need. Most hotels and some home rentals provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Before packing, check to see what will be provided at your accommodation.

Packing Shoes

Most people plan to bring more than one pair of shoes when traveling. If you have several pairs of shoes that you want to bring, you may be worried about wasting space. But if you’re strategic, you can pack several shoes and make it work. 

One way to save on space is to use the empty area inside your shoes to your advantage. You can fill your shoes with smaller items such as socks, underwear, and belts. If you’re worried about dirty shoes, put disposable shower caps on the bottoms of your shoes. If you don’t have these, you can use smaller plastic bags to protect your clothes from dirt.

Ideas to Maximize Space

If you’re looking to maximize the space that you have available, you may be wondering how to pack your items to save room. Here are some techniques that may help: 

Packing cubes: Some travelers use packing cubes for their clothing items and accessories. These cubes can help by slightly compressing your items, so they take up a bit less space in your bag. If you’ve never tried packing cubes, it may be worthwhile to give them a chance. 

Rolling instead of folding: Another option to consider is rolling your clothes. This does take time,  but you may find that you’re able to fit more items in your bag this way. Just make sure that you remember to roll your clothes back up when packing up to head home. 

Choose versatile clothing items: You can also save on space by strategically choosing which clothing items you bring. Consider packing versatile clothing items that work well for multiple outfits. As an example, packing clothing with neutral colors is a great idea. You can wear items multiple times without it looking obvious. Doing this will make it easier to mix and match outfits, and you may find that you can pack fewer items. 

Buy some items at your destination: If you only have so much space to work with, buying some things at your destination may be the best bet. Make sure that you consider cost and availability before choosing to do this.

Suggested Vacation Packing List

Having a packing list can help you make sure that everything you need makes it into your suitcase. If you’re forgetful, printing out your list and checking off each item as you pack is recommended. Here’s a suggested packing list to follow as you prepare for your next trip:

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

With proper planning and good organization, you can ensure that you pack everything that you need for your upcoming trip. The following tips can help you have more success: 

• Make a packing list and check each item off as you pack . It may seem silly, but this practice can help you avoid forgetting must-have items. You’ll be glad that you have what you need.
• Start with your must-have items. As you begin to pack, start with essential items. This way, you don’t forget to bring what you truly need. 
• Keep items packed up. Once you check an item off your list, ensure it stays in your packed bag. If you remove something and forget to make a note, you may end up leaving without it. 
• Don’t forget masks. When traveling during the pandemic, you’ll want to bring plenty of masks. Mask requirements vary by destination, and you want to make sure that you have what you need before you arrive. 
• Know your airline’s baggage rules. If you bring an overweight or too-large bag, you may get stuck paying extra fees. Check your airline’s sizing and weight rules before you begin packing, and double-check the weight once your bag is all packed up.  
• Consider wrinkles when choosing clothing items. Some fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than others. If you don’t have access to an iron or a dryer, (I’m not the only one that de-wrinkles my clothes this way, right?!) try to pick materials that are less likely to get wrinkled. 
• Wear bulky items. Bulky items take up a lot of space and weight. If you plan to bring a bulky winter jacket or boots, for example, wear them on the plane. You’ll have what you need without taking up space and weight in your bag. 
• Do laundry while traveling. If at all possible, do laundry while traveling. Whether you stay in a home rental with laundry facilities or stop at a laundromat, this can help reduce the number of clothes you need to pack.
• Don’t overpack. It can be easy to overpack accidentally. Focus on what you truly need instead of bringing “maybe” items.
• Ensure your house is in order. Before leaving, make sure all of your lights are off and your alarm system is set if you have one. Other things to do include watering your plants, taking out the trash, setting automatic pet feeders, and notifying your credit card companies of your travel.

Yes, you can travel with liquids. Liquid containers must be no larger than 3.4 ounces, and all liquid containers must fit in one resealable quart-sized bag. If you want to bring larger liquid items, they must be packed in checked baggage.

Experiment with different methods of packing. Some travelers find success using packing cubes, while others find better success rolling their clothes. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get at maximizing space.

Make a packing list and check each item off as you put it in your bag.

Consider keeping electronics, valuables, money, your passport, essential medicine, and a change of clothes with you. If your checked baggage gets lost or is delayed, you’ll have what you need with you.

While you can do this, it’s recommended that you don’t put valuables in your checked baggage. Instead, place them in your carry-on bag or personal item. Putting valuables in a purse or backpack under the seat in front of you is best because it will be near you. If you place valuables in a checked bag, they could be stolen.

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Don’t leave your packing until the very last moment. If you do this, you may be unprepared once you arrive at your destination. With proper planning, packing can be easy and quick. Follow the tips above for the best success as you begin to pack for your trip. See our beach vacation packing list for more specifics if you will be vacationing near the ocean or a lake.

By Natasha Gabrielle

Natasha has been a freelance writer since 2015. She specializes in writing travel and credit card rewards content. When not busy writing, she’s either dreaming up her next credit card rewards redemption or traveling the globe. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them while making smart money choices.

American Airlines Baggage Fees, Allowance, & Policy – How to Avoid the Expenses in 2024

Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees, Allowance, & Policy (2024)

Beach Vacation Packing List for 2024 – What to Pack for Your Next Family Trip This Summer

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Creating my Travel Packing List was my least favorite part of planning our Around the World Trip. When I sought out help, the general travel checklist I found was of little use. I wanted – I needed –  a detailed list of what to pack for my trip. 

With little assistance, I floundered through the process of creating my own travel packing checklist – but I succeeded! Now, I’m sharing my list of travel essentials – including very specific details about what to pack for a trip – in this Ultimate Travel Checklist. 

Best Travel Packing List

When I was determining what things to pack for my trip, I was torn between being a minimalist traveler and the fact that I was packing for a year-long adventure that would span all seasons. (Most travelers aren’t faced with this challenge, so I share important tips about how to create a packing list for a week or two throughout this post!) 

Furthermore, as a budget-conscious traveler, I was faced with creating a travel packing checklist that included essential travel items, plus several Just-In-Case items, so that I wouldn’t have to buy them on the road. It was a strenuous task, but I am now convinced that I have created the Ultimate Packing List.  

My detailed packing list includes every item I carry – as well as the bags I carry it all in – with detailed specifics of those travel items, too. 

It is, perhaps, important to note that while we are full-time travelers, what I pack does not differ greatly from what I would pack for a week-long vacation. Whether you are looking for an international travel packing list for a week in Europe or a backpacking packing list for a month-long trip to Southeast Asia, our universal packing list can help!

In this post, I talk in detail about my trip packing list – including why some items are necessary and which items can be left behind.

To help fellow travelers, we also have a printable travel checklist that we share – download our free checklist for packing, plus get other valuable travel tips!

Travel Packing Trouble

I’ve never met anyone who loves packing for a trip. In fact, I think packing for a vacation is the most daunting, upcoming-trip-buzz-killer there is. Incorporating necessities for traveling, comfort and style – and resisting the urge to pack everything you own – can be a real struggle.

I used to be an over-packer with a long packing list that went on forever. I was the traveler who checked two large suitcases for a one-week vacation…and only wore about a fifth of what was packed. However, those days of arriving at a hotel amongst a pile of suitcases are long behind me.

The more I traveled, the savvier I became. Coordinated outfits, essential toiletries and sensible shoes were the items I packed. I had a streamlined formula that destroyed my packing dilemma. I could pack for a week-long, overseas trip in about an hour; for weekend jaunts, I could pack and be out the door in 20 minutes’ time.

Travel Packing List for Year-Long Trip

When we decided to spend a year traveling the world, I contemplated what I would carry…and all of my packing angst returned. I spent weeks poring over packing checklists, agonizing over what would make the cut and fretting what would be left behind.

I read travel blogs that insisted I needed over-priced travel products on my list for packing; a farce I regrettably fell for regarding some items and good advice I carelessly dismissed regarding others. Yet, I retained enough self-awareness to know some travel items would never make my world travel packing list.

On the day we boarded that long haul flight to begin our around the world journey , my biggest source of stress was worrying over what I had packed.

Our one year of full-time travel turned into two…and two years turned into three. In that time, my packing worries diminished. Packing is no longer a source of anguish; I’m happy with my packing choices. Since we started our nomadic life in April 2014, what I carry in my backpack has barely changed – only requiring a few small adjustments and tweaks.

{For more insight to packing for long-term travel, read our post, What I Packed to Travel the World }

Packing for Vacation List

Somewhat surprisingly, creating a packing list for vacation is not that different from creating a long-term travel packing list. Travelers going on a trip to a neighboring state or on a vacation to the other side of the world can use my sample packing list as a guideline of what to bring. 

When packing for a long trip – anything over a week and definitely when packing for a two-week vacation or longer – determine if you can do laundry during your trip. This will help keep your clothing packing list to a minimum. 

Every traveler should tailor their packing checklist to the specific destination. When packing for a trip, keep in mind the weather and activities you will be participating in. Also, determine whether or not you will need to bring electronics (like laptops) and what kind of travel camera you want to bring on your trip. 

Ultimate Packing List For World Travel and Vacations

My packing list seldom varies, but if I add (or get rid of!) anything to what I pack, I update this Packing List.

I’ve provided a link to each item so you can see if it will work for your packing list for travel. I have attempted to link to the exact product (make, model and color) that I own, but some of the things I pack are no longer available. In that case, I’ve linked to a similar product.

I share my packing list information in an effort to help other travelers create their packing lists for vacation, but packing is extremely personal. Above all, my best packing advice: Pack What’s Comfortable!

Get Your FREE Packing Checklist!

TRAVEL CLOTHES

When it comes to making a travel items list, the best place to start is with clothing.

I pack clothes that can be worn in all weather; the items I carried in my backpack to Iceland in winter   are the same as when we travel to Vietnam . While my list of clothes to pack will likely work for travelers making a vacation packing list for California in the spring (when it’s warm during the day and cool at night) or to Croatia in the autumn , I think summer or winter travelers should plan clothing that is better suited for the hot or cold weather.

Likewise, if you are creating a beach vacation packing list – or are packing for a cruise to the Arctic –  then you will want to tailor your checklist to weather-appropriate gear.

Pro Tip: All clothing on your travel items list should be of the same color scheme to create a travel capsule wardrobe. This is a great hack for packing light – as you will need to pack fewer clothing items overall. Find out more about creating your capsule wardrobe and other top tips in our Packing Hacks article!

Pants, Skirts and Dresses: Vacation Packing List Tips

My trip packing checklist includes a variety of bottoms – including jeans, yoga pants, leggings, capris, a skirt and a skort – but I only pack one pair of each. Many minimalist travelers warn against packing heavy jeans, but honestly, I love wearing jeans – so they make my packing list for vacation and world travel.

One thing that I don’t travel with is zip-off, convertible pants – and here is why: I am not comfortable wearing them. I do think they are brilliant – and I would even say they are backpacking essentials if you are an adventure traveler or extreme minimalist.

However, as I mentioned earlier, you must be comfortable in the clothes you wear on your trip. I packed zip-off pants for my first trip to Europe and I hated wearing them because I didn’t think they were fashionable (I will admit, however, that the styles have come a long way since then!).

In warmer weather destinations, I love wearing dresses for long days of sightseeing…but they are also great for cool weather, when I can warm up the outfit with leggings and my thin hoodie. (This is why matching all clothing items is key!) My dresses are casual, loose-fitting and non-revealing (so that I am able to visit attractions – like churches and temples – in destinations where modesty is required).

Pack for Travel List: Pants, Skirts and Dresses 

• 1 pair jeans (or casual pants  or zip-off pants )
• 1 pair loose yoga pants with pockets
• 1 pair moisture-wicking  leggings
• 1 pair cargo  capris or shorts
• 1 thin, cotton  skirt
• 2 casual dresses
• 1 casual  skort

Long Sleeve Shirts, Short Sleeve Shirts and Tank Tops: Travel Packing List Advice

When we first left to travel the world, I didn’t pack enough shirts – I only had 1 tank top, 2 t-shirts and 3 long sleeve shirts in my bag. It was a huge mistake, as I was constantly doing laundry in both warm and cold weather climates. I have since added additional shirts without adding too much weight to my bag, which has resulted in seriously cutting down on the time I spend doing sink laundry!

That said, washable, quick-drying, non-wrinkling shirts are packing essentials. Pay close attention to the materials of the clothing you pack. If you need to wash a shirt on the road, you want to know that it will dry quickly – and that any wrinkles will shake out of clothing after taking it out of your bag.

Travel List to Pack for Shirts and Tops

• 4 long sleeve quick drying shirts
• 1 long sleeve cotton shirt
• 3  tank tops
• 1 thin  camisole  used for bottom layer or beachwear
• 3 loose fitting  t-shirts
• 1 thin, zip up  hoodie

Undergarments, Pajamas and Swimsuits: Packing Lists Tips

It seems to me that most travelers either over-pack or under-pack undergarments. Those who over-pack argue that you should have 1 (and sometimes 2!) pairs of underwear and socks for every day of the trip.

Minimalist packers contend that undergarments are the easiest to sink wash and the quickest to dry, so there is no reason to pack more than 5 pairs of each for any length trip. I pack 8 pairs of underwear and 8 pairs of socks (which is also what I recommend for anyone who is making a packing list for a week or longer).

ExOfficio underwear are all the rage for travelers – but, personally, they haven’t lived up to my expectations due to an awkward fit, color breakdown and ripped elastic. I still travel with them (mostly because of the money I shelled out to buy them), but I much more prefer wearing the breathable Fruit of the Loom bikini underwear – which cost a mere fraction of the price of ExOfficio.

Travel Packing Checklist for Undergarments

• 1 set of  pajamas
• 1 bikini swimwsuit (choose one swimsuit that fits your style)
• 4  Exofficio underwear
• 4 Fruit of the Loom underwear
• 2 sport bras
• 2 bras and 1 racerback bra
• 6 athletic socks
• 2 socks for flats or slip on shoes
• 1 fuzzy socks or travel slippers
• 1 compression socks

Travel Outerwear: Coats, Gloves, Hats, Scarves and Wraps

We travel in all seasons, so I pack a variety of caps and gloves (as I found they were necessary after we first started traveling). However, for a shorter, destination-specific trip, I would choose between thin and wool, rather than packing both. And, quite obviously, winter apparel is completely unnecessary if making a beach trip packing list. 

The most multi-function clothing item I pack is my wrap – and, in my opinion, it is an essential item for travelers. In addition to its obvious purpose, I have used mine as a beach towel, bath towel, picnic blanket, airport blanket and bus pillow. The one I carry is black, thin and cost around $10…and I use it all the time.

I have – unfortunately – gone through several pairs of sunglasses since we started traveling. I started with my favorite – and expensive – pair of  Maui Jim sunglasses , but lost them while in Ireland. After that, I went ultra-cheap…and wasn’t surprised when three consecutive pairs broke just after a few weeks of use. I currently travel with a moderately-priced pair of polarized sunglasses, which are sufficient…but not heartbreaking if they get lost or broken. (That said, I am looking forward to the day I upgrade to Maui Jim’s again!)

List of What To Pack for Outerwear 

• 1 lightweight zip up fleece (with zip pockets)
• 1 water resistant jacket (which fits over fleece)
• 2 fashion scarves (or a secret zippered pocket Travel Scarf )
• 1 versatile  wrap
• 1 baseball cap (or travel hat )
• 1 thin winter cap
• 1 warm winter cap
• 1 pair of thin winter gloves (with touchscreen functionality)
• 1 pair of wool mittens
• Sunglasses for travel

Travel Shoes: Packing Advice

When it comes to shoes, I think most travelers can get by with just 3 pairs. Shoes take up too much space to pack any more than that. Make sure the shoes you choose for your trip go with all of your outfits and – most importantly – that they are comfortable for exploring. 

For more detailed information about what shoes to pack for your trip, read our blog post, The Best Travel Shoes !

Shoes for Travel Packing Checklist

• 1 pair walking shoes for sightseeing and hiking
• 1 pair casual shoes (or casual travel flats or foldable flats )
• 1 pair flip flops

TRAVEL TOILETRIES LIST

When it comes to your toiletries packing list, it is important to strike a balance between space-saving items and short-changing yourself. Our best recommendation when packing toiletries is to consider the overall length of your trip. If you are packing for two weeks or less, it is best to pack travel-size toiletries.

That said, bathroom essentials are available all around the world, so replacing these items while traveling is not likely an issue. If you are packing for a long trip, it might be better to bring some full size toiletries (but it really depends on where you are going and how much it would cost to replace them at your destination).

Pro Tip : One more thing to consider is that the price of sunscreen and shaving cream is ridiculously inflated in some of the top destinations around the world, so it’s best to pack an ample supply.

Essential Travel Toiletries Tips

Re-fillable travel bottles are the way to go for bathroom essentials like lotions and shampoo. Many travelers swear by the GoToob brand. If you don’t have travel size bottles, however, many travel-size items are sold together in a convenient toiletry travel kit . 

I used to travel with disposable facial cloths (cut into halves or quarters to make the box last longer), but now just use regular soap to wash my face. I have also used soap or hair conditioner instead of shaving cream.

Essential Travel Toiletries List

• Toiletry bag with hanger (for bathrooms where there is a hook, but no counter space)
• Travel size Bar Soap (just in case it is not provided at our accommodations)
• Shampoo Conditioner 2-in-1 (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Travel size Shaving Cream
• Travel size Hair Brush
• Electric Toothbrush
• Travel size Toothpaste
• Retainers (with case and special brush)
• Unscented Body Lotion (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Facial Cleansing Wipes and/or Individual Makeup Remover Wipes
• Everyday Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen
• Full or Travel size Deodorant
• Kleenex travel pack
• Toilet paper (folded in a snack-size ziplock or these handy travel rolls )
• Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Nail File Kit
• Cuticle Cream
• Quick-dry Washcloth

Makeup and Travel Essentials for Women: Advice for What To Pack

While we do include makeup on this packing list for women, I recommend keeping it simple with just a few makeup travel bag essentials.

Also, ladies, don’t forget to put feminine products on your travel essentials list! In some countries – like many in South America and several in Europe – the choice of feminine products isn’t as liberal as in other parts of the world (like the United States). If you have a preference for tampons, you should pack them, as they may not be available where you are traveling. Some female travelers like to use the Diva Cup . 

Women Travel Essentials List

• Face Powder
• Face Powder Brush and Concealer Brush
• Eyelash Curler (travel size)
• Feminine products
• Simple Fashion Jewelry

Travel First Aid Bag: Advice for Packing Lists

My first aid travel bag is one of my must-have travel items. I carry an assortment of medications (both prescription and over the counter) that are within easy reach if I need them.

Medicine bottles can take up a lot of space and it can be tempting to just mix all the medications together, which isn’t ideal. I use small, individual  jars  with screw caps to store medications – and use a marker to label each bottle. A weekly pill box could also work in a travel first aid kit.

For more of our tips, read our blog post Staying Healthy While Traveling !

First Aid Kit List of What To Pack

• Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
• No-rinse hand cloths or Wet Ones Wipes
• Band Aids,   Antiseptic and Cortizone Cream
• Tums and Anti-diarrhea
• Dayquil and Emergen-C
• Anti-histamine
• Sea bands (for motion sickness)
• Medications

TRAVEL ODDS AND ENDS

All of our odds and ends items may not be necessary for a weekend packing list, but a few of these items are all-star travel accessories…and you might already have them around the house.

Check out our list of Everyday Items for Travel for tips on why you should pack these items!

Pack for Travel: List of Just in Case Items

• Silk Sleep Sack
• Sleeping Mask and Ear Plugs (this is one of our essentials for Long Haul Flights )
• Water Bottle (these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers!)
• Bottle Opener
• Mini Mag Light Flashlight
• Mini roll of duct tape
• Binder clips , carabiner clips and rubber bands
• Re-sealable plastic bags: sandwich and gallon size
• Combination lock
• Small Scissors , Sewing kit and extra safety pins
• Travel size laundry detergent (for machine and sink )
• Travel Umbrella
• Playing Cards
• Business cards (hey, you never know!)
• Travel Journal
• 2 pens and 1 marker

TRAVEL ELECTRONICS

As digital nomads, carrying all of these electronics are essential. It does, however, complicate travel days, so we only recommend that you pack what you will really use on your trip!

Electronics Travel Items List

• Cell phone, iPhone, iPad, iPod
• Laptop (similar to this slim Samsung Notebook ) or Tablet (like a  Kindle )
• External Hard Drive
• DSLR Camera (with slim camera case and extra battery )
• Point and Shoot Camera (with case )
• SD Card (2)
• Headphones (2)
• Cords and battery chargers
• Universal Converter
• Portable Wifi and Charger Power Bank
• Portable Speaker
• 128GB thumb drive (3)

What We Pack In For Travel

What we pack in is just as important as the items on our packing checklist. When flying to a destination, you will need to consider whether you want to deal with checked luggage or carry on only – as that can have a big impact on your list of what to pack. If you do decide to check a bag, read our tips on how to avoid your luggage getting lost .

We carry backpacks, rather than suitcases, because we think it is a more efficient way to travel. You can read more about the pros and cons of both in our article, Backpack vs Suitcase !

Either way, the actual size of your luggage is a major consideration when creating your packing list for traveling. Both your luggage size and weight can incur extra baggage fees if traveling by plane. 

Travelers attempting to avoid extra fees will likely want to stick to a Trip Essentials list – rather than including any just-in-case items that can be purchased on arrival if needed.  

• Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes are the top item on our travel accessories list (and one of our best overall packing tips)! We splurged on packing cubes and compression bags before we started traveling full-time – and it was, without a doubt, one of the very best pre-travel purchases we made.

We cannot imagine traveling without them as they help to save space and organize our travel gear. For more details, read about the benefits of Packing Cubes in our post, 5 Ways Packing Cubes Make Travel Easier !

I travel with a Messenger Bag – which doubles as my Carry-On and my Day Pack. When traveling by plane, it is essential to take a carry-on size personal item onto the plane that will fit under your seat. We feature other styles of day bags in our blog post, Which is the Best Day Pack for Travel ?

What Bags To Pack: Travelers Packing Checklist

• Lowe Alpine Walkabout 45 backpack (similar to this backpack ) &  Osprey Farpoint (for Kris)
• Messenger Bag or other Day Bag
• Compression Bags
• Passport and document organizer (for extra credit cards, plus extra copies of passports and travel documents)
• Money Belt and Bra Stash or Neck Pouch
• Wallet and Small purse
• Foldable, reusable shopping bag  

Trip Documents

I have covered the top things to pack for a trip, but don’t forget to put your trip documents on your Travel Necessity list! 

Plane tickets and boarding passes, hotel reservation information and trip insurance documentation all need to be packed in your bag. And, don’t forget your driver’s license, credit cards and cash. 

For an International Packing List, make sure you have your passport and international driver’s license (if needed). I also highly recommend including a No-International-Fee credit card for your Overseas Travel Packing List – to avoid paying extra fees. It’s also wise to make copies of important documents to pack separately from the originals – just is case. 

Also pack your Travel Planner with your trip itinerary, hotel reservations and other trip details. Don’t have a trip planner? Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your trip plans!

Tips for Specific Packing Lists

My Ultimate Travel List covers the entire contents of my luggage for full-time, Around The World travel. But what if you are a traveler seeking a 2 Week Travel Packing List or need a packing list for beach vacation? No worries – using my Ultimate Packing Checklist as a base and a few of my top tips, you can create your best checklist for traveling. 

What To Pack for a Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Creating a packing checklist for vacation for a week is not that different from my worldwide travel pack list. That said, travelers creating a One Week Packing List will certainly want to swap out a few items from my list of travel essentials above. 

Rather than choosing items to pack for a trip that work in both hot and cold climates, select apparel and accessories for your One Week Travel Packing list that are in season. 

For example, if going to a cold weather destination, you likely won’t need to pack capris, shorts, a skirt or skort (but you still may want to pack one dress for an evening out). However, instead of just eliminating these items, you want to swap them out for cold weather items – like another pair of jeans and a comfy pair of sweatpants. 

Additionally, for a 1-Week Vacation Packing Checklist, determine what Odds and Ends and Electronic items are necessary for your trip. Items like a combination lock, sleep sack and a laptop might not need to be packed for your trip. 

What To Pack for a 2 Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Packing for a two week trip requires little adjustment from my detailed packing list above – but only if you have access to a washing machine. 

Travelers creating a 2 Week Packing List without access to laundry facilities at the halfway mark of their trip will be required to either pack a lot more clothing or do sink laundry. 

That said, travelers not planning on doing laundry during their two week trip do not necessarily need to pack 14 complete outfits. Pants and sweatshirts that go over another shirt could possibly be worn more than once on your trip without being washed. 

As you make your two week travel packing list, resist the temptation to pack more than you need for your trip – as heavy luggage will weigh you down! 

Beach Vacation Travel Necessities List

Beach vacations require a specific list of travel essentials that differs slightly from my outlined list above. 

For a dedicated beach vacation, I highly recommend bringing at least 2 (if not 3) swimsuits so that each suit can be rinsed and have time to dry in between beach and pool sessions. 

Additionally, your Beach Essential Travel Packing List needs to include ample sun protection. It is wise to bring plenty of sunscreen (either a large sunscreen that will need to be checked or two TSA-approved size carry on bottles of sunscreen ) – as well as a travel hat that will provide shade from the sun. Water shoes , a beach towel, a waterproof bag for your phone and snorkel gear are other travel packing essentials for the beach. 

Complete Travel Check Off List

I have listed every item that I pack for traveling in order to help you come up with your ultimate list. That said, travel packing lists are very personal – and not necessarily the same for every single trip.

To get started with your perfect Vacation Travel Packing list, it’s best to write down the items you intend to pack in your suitcase. To help, we have created an ideal Travel Packing List template. If you want our printable lists for packing, get them here .

Start planning your next big trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

14 Essential Travel Items For Every Trip + Packing List

Disclosure: Advertising and affiliate services, including Amazon Associates, help the cost of running my blog. Clicking ads or making purchases through affiliate links may, at no additional cost to you, earn me a small commission. I appreciate your support .

We all get that feeling as soon as you’re on the way to the airport, or thirty minutes into your car journey: what did I forget? Often you won’t remember until you’re getting ready for bed that first night, miles away from home and you go to brush your teeth with…crap, it was the toothbrush! The good news is that if you’re staying in a hotel they often provide things like this for forgetful travelers which will at least serve you until you can get to a store the next day. But some things aren’t as easy (or cheap) to just pick up along the way. You don’t want to be spending precious food money on the same things you have sat at home waiting to be packed. So here are some of the essential travel items you don’t want to forget when packing for ANY trip.

It’s a biggie, so I’m putting it first. Of all the essential travel items, forgetting this one will ruin your holiday quicker than a rain cloud at the beach. You don’t want to be that person. The one who either has to go back home for the passport, or even miss a flight because of it. Do yourself a favor, put it somewhere you won’t forget it.

I work in the travel industry and the number of times I’ve received a call the day before someone’s dream trip only to hear that their passport is in the safety deposit at the bank which is now closed. While we’re at it, make sure you’re passport is in date, I’ve heard that one a lot too! And always take a photocopy of your passport in case it gets lost/stolen on your travels. If you’re traveling domestically you might not want to take your passport, but make sure to pack other ID such as a driver’s license.

Foreign Currency

Going abroad? They probably don’t take your money there so plan in advance to get some local cash. I live in Canada and although in Vancouver people can spend US Dollars, it kind of irks me when people assume they can spend their own money instead of getting Canadian dollars. A lot of smaller places won’t take your foreign currency. We have our own, it’s pretty and many different colors. But watch out: some countries you cannot buy currency in advance , so plan for that too. As essential travel items go, money is pretty big!

If you’re anything like me, you get up at the crack of dawn on your first day in a new city and want to go exploring. That means you’ll end up outdoors all day and often don’t want to keep going back to your hotel . So having a good day bag is a good idea. Depending on where I am going and how much stuff I will need I use either a canvas shopping bag, a purse or a small backpack if I want my hands free. Since I often now travel with my DSLR camera having a bag big enough for the lenses and camera are vital.

This is usually the thing I forget. So to counter that problem I just bought a ton of pairs and put them all in different bags. No, but seriously, I always count sunglasses as one of my essential travel items. I was in Helsinki , Finland in December where there were only about 6 hours of sunlight a day and I still needed my sunglasses as the winter sun was still bright. Whether you travel in the height of summer or the middle of winter, it’s always good a good idea to have eye protection .

Comfortable shoes

Possibly the most important of all the essential travel items on this list after your passport. You will hate yourself if you are wearing the most uncomfortable shoes for your long day of exploring. I remember being in my early twenties and visiting Paris for the first time. Day one I put on heels because “that’s what French people wear”. I figured if I was to compete with the fancy, elegant Parisians I would need style. That day I visited the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. I walked for miles around that museum then walked to the Eiffel Tower. For those of you who know, that is a freakin’ long way. And despite all the walking, the Eiffel Tower never seems to get any closer. Anyway, lesson learned. I now dress for comfort as well as style . You don’t have to sacrifice either if you shop around.

If you’re going on a trip, you will inevitably want some down time. Make sure you put time aside to just sit and do nothing. Whether it’s by a pool or in a cafe, relaxation is important. And I never leave home without a book , one of the most essential travel items for personal entertainment.

For one, if traveling alone it gives you something to do when dining out so you feel a little less self conscious. If traveling with someone else you’ll want time apart or at least some quiet time. A book is great for that too. Grab your guilty pleasure reading material and get lost in another world while you’re lost in another world. Books are also essential for airports, long train journeys or flights when you just can’t watch another Adam Sandler movie on a tiny screen 4 inches from your face.

Medication/First Aid Kit

Always remember to pack any medications you might need, and even take more than you need as you never know if you will be delayed. While you’re at it, don’t put them in your suitcase – keep in your hand luggage at all times . Even if you don’t take regular medications, I always carry the following:

• Tylenol or Aspirin for headaches
• Band-aids/plasters for minor injuries as well as Godforsaken bad choices in footwear
• Travel sickness medication
• Allergy medication
• Bug bite cream/medication if going somewhere you might need it. I swear by Tiger Balm ever since my first time to Thailand . It’s amazing!

Best to have these things and not need them than have to mime your ailments in a foreign pharmacy and hope for the best. Been there, done that.

Remember to take a reusable water bottle with you on your travels, like this one from FastTech

Sun protection

While we’re on medications, always remember to carry sun block and some after sun lotion. This is definitely high on the list of essential travel items for me: I’m English, incredibly pale and covered in freckles. The sun and me are a recipe for lobster-itis (don’t worry I made that one up). I never leave home to a sunny destination without my Factor 50 and a healthy supply of aloe vera. You can’t be too careful with the sun . Even if you’re not Casper’s long lost twin, you have to take care of your skin. Get a travel size pack of sunblock or individual packets of sunblock. Both fit nicely in your carry on bag and within your liquid restrictions on flights.

Sure, you’re hair is gonna be all flowing and tussled first thing in the morning. You’ll be ready for those amazing photos to make your friends at home in their office cubicles sick with envy. But after your Instagram shots you’re going to want to get practical . Hot weather, sunblock and humidity will not lead to anything good if you don’t tie up your hair, at least if you’re like me. Hermione Granger has nothing on me. Even if it’s not hot, my hair just gets in my way and annoys me after a while so hair ties are a lifesaver . If I could rock short hair I would.

Portable charger

You won’t always be lucky enough to be seated next to the one outlet in a restaurant, or be able to find a free charging station in the airport. Save the stress and pack your own battery pack . Some are very small and compact and hold at least enough of a charge to get your phone juiced up ready to go for a little while longer. Other portable chargers or battery packs are better quality and can keep topping up your phone or laptop to save your battery. Essential travel items doesn’t even begin to cover it if you miss that evening sunset shot. This is the one I recently bought and it charged multiple devices for 4 days on a camping trip and still had plenty of juice left!

I never travel without a pen. Anywhere. For one, I’m a writer so I have to count it as one of my essential travel items. I never go anywhere without a notebook either for when those ideas come to me. Bonus: when I’m alone in a restaurant writing about my day gives me something to do .

But then there are customs declarations, a new favorite restaurant or dish to write down, the phone number of the really cute guy you just me. All of a sudden a pen is not such a bad idea right? If you’re like me, your phone battery might be taking its last breath by the end of a long day of sightseeing and photo taking. A pen is always handy.

Good ones that cancel noise or cheap ones to listen to a few songs or watch Netflix as you go. The choice is up to you. But you can bet you won’t want to forget some headphones either way. Jeff never leaves for a trip without his noise cancelling Beats headphones, they’re one of his top essential travel items. I’m a simpler human and just take my generic headphones with me for when I want to entertain myself for a while. Whatever you use, don’t leave home without them.

I love taking photos. Not just because I want to document everything for when I write about it. But because I love having a reminder of my trips and potential artwork for my home. So although all phones have pretty decent cameras on them now, I have always counted an actual camera as one of my essential travel items. It doesn’t have to be really expensive or a huge DSLR with lots of lenses. It can be a compact camera, but something that might capture the photos you want when you want them in a better way than your cell phone.

Data roaming plan

Going on a short trip abroad? You will likely want to check your data roaming plan before you leave . Sign up or at least check what you get for your money with the plan you have. You don’t want to be lost without data, this isn’t the Nineties anymore. We can’t cope with that! The last couple of bigger trips I’ve taken I found it easier to buy a SIM card at my destination with added minutes and data. And WAAYYYYYY cheaper too. I did it in upon arrival in Vietnam for my two week trip , and the UK for my European trip in December. And I barely put a dent in my 6GB of data for less than 2 days of roaming through my carrier at home. Just don’t forget to make sure your phone is not locked before you leave your home country.

Bonus item: a travel themed face mask

Face masks were always a popular choice for many when traveling, but after 2020 they’re mandatory on most, if not all transport. Just because you have to wear one doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Buy a fun travel themed version like my favorite plane mask. If anything is destined to be worn on a flight it’s this. Buy yours here .

Essential travel items for a smooth trip

These 14 things will help you be prepared for a much smoother, much easier and much more enjoyable, relaxing trip. Wherever you are going. Near, far, wherever you are. Getting a little too Celine isn’t it? I digress. But while everyone has their must take items, these are some of the best you can put on your list. Be prepared and have fun. And don’t forget your toothbrush passport.

If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. What are your essential travel items? Have you ever forgotten anything and regretted it?

Share this:

• Share on Tumblr

23 thoughts on “14 Essential Travel Items For Every Trip + Packing List”

I seem to always forget a pen and have to always ask someone on the plane to borrow one for the custom form.

Before last summer, I never bothered with local prepaid SIMs but honestly don’t know how I coped on trips before because they are so handy, whether it’s for following the route your Uber/taxi driver is taking you on or to help you find your way again.

For me it’s usually the charger cables. The amount of times I had to buy yet another phone cable or watch charger before take off…. as I travel a lot for work, I eventually resulted having an entire set of spare charging cables readily packed in my suitcase at all times.

OMG! So many essentials that I tend to forget like hair ties! Such a great post, thanks Emma! 🙂

Great post!

You have covered everything we normally bring. I guess the extra little things I’d include are noise cancelling headphones and an eye mask (so I can sleep on flights…)

A pen is something I never think to bring but I always end up needing!! Loved the list.<3

I always make sure that I have a credit card without foreign transaction fees. There have been a few times where things just went completely wrong, and it was good to have that credit card on hand.

Great tips! I agree it’s always a good idea to look into your cell phone plan before you go off the normal grid.

Soo helpful! there are always things that I mange to forget no matter how early I start to pack. I will save this list as a double checker for sure! Thank you for the great tips

So many essential items! I used to travel hand luggage only, but the electricity stuff, chargers, mobile, camera, something to backup the pictures, laptop… getting heavier and heavier! I would also take cash and my usual credit card and a back-up credit card. Sometimes foreign ATM do funny things, especially in Estern Europe. And another essential item is my “cuddle blanket” or pillow, either a nice pashmina from home I can use as a travel blanket or cover-up or a small pillow 🙂

Great tips and essentials! I am always need a neck pillow for long travel haha

I cannot live without my portable charger and I feel it’s something that people always forget! I’ve sure been saved in those 6 hour train rides with no outlets.

I always have to write down my essentials and check them before I leave the house. Otherwise, I get a bit worried. But I also try to remember that as long as I have my ID, my phone, and some money on me I can get whatever I need at my destination as well.

I know a pen is so simple, but I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve needed one when I’m travelling! Thanks for this great list 🙂

Definitely agree with all you mentioned! I could never travel without hair ties 😀

Hair ties are probably my most forgotten item on any trip. I also am really poor at remembering a first aid kit. These 14 items are diffidently must haves when traveling. Great list.

Great list! My can’t leave without are my glasses (lol I’m blind without them) and my giant battery that I can plug in like 4-5 different devices. This has saved us so many times! Thanks for sharing.

Hair ties are a really good one.

My husband inevitably forgets something important — like his coat when we were visiting Munich in winter…

Such a good reminder to bring a first aid kit. I seem to always be to running to the pharmacy to grab a few things and end up paying way more.

I would also include sunscreen, and lip balm, if I forget either of them I end up havign to buy them!

I totally agree with every single thing on this list. The number of times I had to ask someone on the plane to borrow their pen omg, haha now I NEVER travel without a pen!

Weirdly enough I think the most underrated thing to travel with that you mentioned, is a pen! Such a small little thing that you wouldn’t even think about, but it definitely comes in handy. This is a great list!

Love these! Sometimes the most basic ones are the things we overlook in most trips – like pens and hair ties! Haha! I always end up borrowing from friends. 😀

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

International travel essentials you should never travel without – checklist.

Heading on an international trip and not sure what to pack? Obviously your packing list will vary by your destination, but there are several travel essentials that you’ll want to bring with you on EVERY international trip, no matter the destination. Here’s my international travel essentials checklist of items to bring — see printable checklist at the end of the post:

14 Essential Things to Bring on EVERY International Trip - International Travel Checklist

1. passport + travel documents.

Make sure you have your passport and all travel documents, including:

• Your boarding pass
• Confirmation of where you’ll be staying (customs forms often ask for the address)
• Visa, if needed (check which countries require a Visa for Americans here )
• Insurance (both regular health and travel insurance )

2. Copy of ALL DOCUMENTS - International Travel Essentials

I ALWAYS make a copy or two of my passport, Driver’s License, and Visa before going on any trip, and take photos of everything on my phone. It’s a good idea to keep one in your carry-on and another in your luggage just in case anything ever got lost. I also always make sure to have my Known Traveler Number (KTN) written down somewhere in case I need it – I wrote it in my passport book.

You May Also Like: 11 Thing to Know Before Traveling Internationally

3. Cash + Credit Cards

It’s always a good idea to travel with some cash and at least two credit or debit cards just in case one gets lost of stolen. I keep one card in my purse and the other back in the room or in a separate bag.

TRAVEL TIP: Make sure you alert your bank that you will be traveling BEFORE you go. It’s a nightmare having your card frozen because your bank sees “suspicious” charges from another county.

4. Copy of Emergency Contact Info

Make copies of your emergency contact’s info and keep it in your luggage and carry-on. It is also a good idea to give copies of your itinerary to your emergency contact, just so they know where you’re supposed to be and when.

5. Phone + Portable Charger

Obviously you’ll want to bring your phone whenever traveling internationally (or literally any other time you leave the house, let’s be honest)! I also bring an extra battery pack too, you’d hate to end up with a dead phone in a foreign place.

TRAVEL TIP: Check out these 24 apps every traveler should have on their phone .

6. Universal Plug Adapter - International Travel Essentials

Save yourself some money in the long run and buy a universal plug adapter that will work in any country. This one is well-reviewed and under $20 on Amazon.

7. Hand Sanitizer/Wipes

I think now more than ever people are aware of germs. To help prevent you from getting sick and spreading germs, always keep a bottle of hand sanitizer or wipes with you when traveling. 

You Might Also Like:  How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

8. Medications + Basic First Aid

Whenever I travel, In addition to my prescribed medications, I like to bring a small supply of basic medications just in case you need them or they are not readily available wherever you are traveling to (try finding Benadryl in the middle of Croatia ). I personally bring:

• something to help me sleep like  Benadryl ,  ZzzQuil , or  melatonin
• Emergen-C  or  Airborne
• Tums ,  Pepto ,   Immodium , etc
• dry eye relief eye drops
• a couple of  bandaids

TRAVEL TIP: Instead of bringing full bottles, use a travel pill organizer to save room in your luggage by bringing only what you need! You can use a sharpie to label what everything is on the cover.

9. TSA Approved Lock

Having a TSA Approved lock not only keeps your stuff safe, it may come in handy more than you realize. It can be used to secure a purse or bag to a chair at a restaurant to prevent theft. If you want to be extra cautious, lock up your suitcase and secure it to something sturdy anytime you leave your hotel room.

10. Lightweight Sweater or Jacket or Blanket

I always have a lightweight sweater or blanket in my carry-on no matter where I’m flying to (even a  tropical beach vacation ) in case it gets cold on the plane or in the airport!

You May Also Like: List of the Best Travel Pillows

11. Noise Canceling Headphones - Must-Have International Travel Essentials

I have said this in so many post, and I’ll say it again… Noise Canceling Headphones are SO WORTH IT. Yes, they are expensive, but I swear they make a huge difference and are worth the cost if you travel often.

12. Water Bottle

Water is obviously important! Stay hydrated on your trip and save money by bringing your own water bottle.  Vacuum insulated water bottles   are great because they doesn’t “sweat” and keep water cold for a long time!

13. Pen + Paper

You may not use a pen often, but you still have to fill out most customs paperwork by hand, so stick a pen or two in your carry-on. I like to bring a small journal with me as well.

14. Ziplock Bags

You’d be surprised how often Ziplock bags come in handy! They don’t take up any space, so pack a couple in your suitcase.

Here is a link to the International Travel Essentials Checklist in a Google Doc (seen below). You can “Create a Copy” and customize the list for yourself and print it!

What do you always bring when traveling internationally? Share by commenting below or sending me a DM on Instagram .  Happy travels! 

You Might Also Like:

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling During COVID

What to Know Before Traveling Internationally – 11 Must-Know Things

The Ultimate Moving Abroad Packing List for Women

Carry-On Essentials: How to Survive an International Flight

13 Must-Have Travel Beauty Products You Should Bring On Every Trip

How to Get Unlimited Wifi Wherever You Travel With Skyroam

Was this helpful? Save on Pinterest:

Share this:

2 thoughts on “ international travel essentials you should never travel without – checklist ”.

I had only few problems with travelling. I think it is very important to stay safe while traveling, during my last travel in Europe I had a problem with my date while using Wi-Fi a lot of my data from my Phone and Laptop where stolen. I think you should use VPN while traveling. Some VPN are free and worth using! https://howtogetavpn.com

There are rough spots, like bumps and steep roads, that you have to compensate for when making turns. Some platforms are also more narrow and require precise time synchronization to align properly. Drift Boss

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

The Travel Quandary

15 Essential Travel Items We Take On Every Trip

No doubt you’ve been on a trip whereby you’ve forgotten that one essential travel item so you have to buy another version at the airport. And then the next time you travel, you bring too many items that you don’t end up using. 

Sound familiar? Yeah, we hear you.

Even after countless trips, we can still get it wrong. But over time, we’ve noticed the same useful travel accessories and the international travel must haves that we simply can’t travel without. Feel free to use this essential travel items list before you depart as one last check and to give your mother peace of mind.

THE ESSENTIAL THINGS TO PACK FOR TRAVELLING

Travel adaptor.

Gone are the days where you needed to carry a different travel adaptor for each continent or country! Thankfully, it’s as easy as packing a universal travel adaptor which should be able to cover all your electronic charging needs.

We would recommend buying a travel adaptor that also has at least one (1) USB port too because let’s face it – it’s usually your smartphone that needs charging the most!

Packing Cubes

Until Jasmine met Bevan, she had never packed with packing cubes. She’d applied almost every other technique – rolling clothes, stuffing socks and undies in shoes – practically all the tricks under the sun. How naive.

Lesson learned and now she swears by them. It makes it easier to divide our clothes and access them rather seamlessly. Plus, different size cubes mean you can come up with your own categorisation system.

Combination Lock

Look, we know that locks can be cut. Even if you have your zippers secured with a steel padlock, what’s to stop a thief from lifting your entire bag before cutting through the material anyway?

Because you never know when a lock could save your stuff. You’ll use it on hostel lockers, to secure your bag when you check it in for a flight – you might even attach the bag to a bed when you sleep at night.

You will need it at some point in your travels (we’d probably assess you as ignorant if you think otherwise) and even if you don’t use a padlock, it’s rather light anyway.

Filter Water Bottle

Mother Nature has shown us the destructive properties of single-use plastic on the environment and to the wellbeing of all that lives on Planet Earth. We cringe at the thought of how many plastic water bottles we used to buy when we travelled 5 – 7 years ago. As much as possible, we continue to work at reducing our single-use plastic consumption, particularly when we travel.

After considerable research, we’ve recently invested in a Grayl filter water bottle. We are planning to take it with us on our Latin America adventure (currently postponed) and will provide a user review at a later date. If you don’t have a filter water bottle, travelling with a reusable water bottle is a wonderful alternative.

Other highly reviewed filter water bottles include the LifeStraw and LifeSaver.

If you’ve met us or read our blog long enough, you’ll know by now that we are coffee fiends. It’s appalling just many coffee cups and lids end up in landfill but it’s positive to read and hear about many cafes working to take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Our KeepCups come with us on every trip and we use them for takeaway coffee (sometimes the cafes will offer a small discount as an incentive to customers) or overnight oats if we plan to make our own breakfast.

COFFEE PAGE

Memory cards.

Again, we love to travel and we love to take photos so we always carry multiple memory cards with us. We tend to not carry a portable hard drive with us and we really do need to get into a better habit of backing photos up onto a Cloud account, but we prefer to carry several memory cards given their small size and light weight.

We recently purchased a wallet to store our memory cards which has been a game changer!

We love to travel and we love to take photos. Sometimes, it’s nice to have both of us in the photo so we use the tripod to hold the camera and set the timer. We’re now shooting more night photography too so having a tripod is a must to prevent shakiness.

Our Genesis tripod is the larger, sturdier frame however, we’ve recently invested in a Joby Gorilla pod as we’re attracted by the bendable legs. It’s also a bit smaller and lighter so hoping it will prove its worth on future travels.

Want to know how we take our photos? Read What’s In Our Camera Bag

Portable charger.

Seeing as paper maps are no longer in vogue, it’s likely you’re using your smartphone as a navigational tool. Thank goodness for modern technology.

It’s worth investing in a reputable portable charger because we’re all too familiar with that sinking feeling when our smartphone battery dies! Make sure that the portable charger battery is fully charged before setting off for the day.

If you’re planning on partaking in any night activities, you’ll want to be able to see where you’re going AND keep your hands free. The last thing you want is to drop your smartphone in a puddle of water if you lose your footing.

We honestly believe that a headlamp is worth its weight in gold. If you’re camping and nature calls in the middle of the night, it’s simple enough to strap this to your head, flick the switch and the light will be on in your line of sight. Just don’t forget to insert batteries if you need them!

First Aid Kit

We often carry a first aid kit with us on our trips. You probably don’t need it for a city weekend getaway but we consider it imperative if we are participating in any outdoor activities. It pays to be prepared, even if you have the basics such as band-aids, a couple of bandages and alcohol wipes.

Notebook/Travel Diary

Some of us won’t let go of the golden days. And that’s completely fine because some of the best stories come from the pages of travel diaries. Journaling your thoughts or newly-created memories on a fresh piece of paper can be therapeutic and a souvenir to return to in the years to come.

Jasmine is the primary wordsmith of the two of us and tries to brain dump all her thoughts of what she’s done, seen, eaten, felt and experienced at the end of each day.

For all the bookworms, even though the scent of a brand new book is intoxicating or flicking through a dog-eared old favourite is nostalgic, it may be time to downsize to a Kindle. Other than being compact and light weight, you can store more than one book on here, it has a built in light for reading at night time and you can read anywhere offline.

Microfibre travel towels

If you’re travelling long-term, chances are you will stay in a variety of accommodation. Some places will provide the fluffy, white, robe-esque luxury kind whilst a few will provide flimsy, questionable-looking rags and some won’t provide a towel at all.

Plus, if you go swimming at the beach or get drenched in an unexpected downpour, it’s ideal if you have your own small microfibre travel towel with you.

The best thing about travel towels is that they’re compact and fast-drying – perfect for when you’re constantly on the go!

Eye Mask // Ear Plugs

We used to scoff at the idea and the look of ear plugs and eye masks but now on overhaul flights and/or the absence of light-blocking curtains, you’ll find us reaching for both of these items.

Invest in a pair of reusable silicone ear plugs. Firstly, it’s better for the environment than the single-use foam ones and secondly, there is now a range of ear plugs available. From noise-cancelling to air pressure ear plugs, you’re bound to find a pair suitable for you.

Eye masks are easy to stuff into a pocket of your backpack and they work. Soon, you won’t care what you look like to other people because you’re so happy to get some decent shut-eye!

Spare passport sized photos

In the unlikely event of an emergency, having colour photocopies of your passport and some spare passport sized photos could literally save your ass.

The old-school kiosk photo booths may not exist in the very country where you urgently need to apply for a last-minute visa so tuck a few of these away for that rainy day.

Please note that some links on our site are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By continuing to use this website, you consent to the use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy .

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Packing Lists

The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags, it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version 404 , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs and international destinations.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

SIXT rent a car Magazine

Travel Tips and News

Dog Travel Kits: Essentials for Traveling with Pets

Preparing a dog travel kit is crucial for planning a trip away with your dog. A tailored dog travel kit ensures you have all the necessary items in one place, making it easier to manage and organize your dog’s belongings while on the go.

Travel kits typically include essential items such as first aid supplies, medications, and emergency contact information. These readily available items can be crucial for your dog’s health and safety in case of unexpected situations or emergencies during travel.

The Essential Items for a Dog Travel Kit

Here’s a breakdown of what you must pack in your dog travel kit to keep you and your pooch relaxed and happy on your vacation.

Sudden changes in diet can upset a dog’s stomach and lead to digestive issues. Not only do you ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are met by bringing enough of their regular food but eating familiar food also helps them feel secure and comfortable, even in unfamiliar environments. By bringing your dog’s own food, you can avoid potential allergic reactions or digestive upsets if they consume unfamiliar food while traveling. Finding the specific brand or type of dog food your pet prefers may not always be easy, depending on your destination. Bringing enough food ensures you won’t have to rely on finding a suitable replacement while on the road, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas.

In case of unexpected delays or emergencies during your trip, having a sufficient supply of dog food on hand ensures that you can continue to provide for your pet’s needs without added stress or inconvenience.

When packing dog food for a trip, consider the following tips to ensure it stays secure and fresh. Use airtight containers, measure portions, and keep the food accessible.

Water & Bowls

Just like humans, dogs need to stay hydrated, especially when they’re on the go. Traveling can be stressful for dogs, and they may become dehydrated more quickly than usual. Access to fresh water allows them to drink whenever needed, helping prevent dehydration and maintain their health and comfort. Traveling, particularly during hot weather or climates your dog isn’t accustomed to, can increase the risk of overheating. Drinking water helps dogs regulate their body temperature.

Providing fresh water ensures your dog feels comfortable and cared for during travel, which can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with being away from home.

Take portable water solutions for traveling with your dog, such as a portable water bottle or collapsible bowls.

 Bedding and toys

Dogs can feel stressed or anxious in unfamiliar environments, especially when traveling. Bringing familiar items from home, like bedding, toys, and treats, can provide comfort and help reduce anxiety for your dog while away from home. A toy also gives your dog something to focus on and keeps them occupied in the car, reducing the risk of your dog distracting you on your road trip.

 Leashes, waste bags and grooming supplies

Dogs can be unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar environments or when excited by new sights and sounds. Keeping them on a leash helps prevent them from running off into potentially dangerous situations, such as busy roads, crowded areas, or encounters with aggressive animals. Many places, including parks, trails, and public spaces, have leash laws in effect to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs and humans. Even well-trained dogs can be prone to sudden impulses or distractions, which could lead to accidents or injuries if they’re not restrained. 

Look for leashes made from durable materials, such as nylon or leather, that can withstand wear and tear from outdoor activities and regular use.

Always be prepared and pack plenty of waste bags; it’s always important to clean up after your pets, and even better if you purchase biodegradable waste bags.

Take some grooming supplies, particularly if you’re on an extended vacation or road trip. Keeping your dog clean and well-maintained while traveling helps prevent illnesses and ensures overall well-being.

Regulatory requirements & medication

When traveling with your dog, especially across state, there may be regulatory requirements regarding certain items you need to carry, such as vaccination records or health certificates. A travel kit can help you organize and store these documents conveniently. Also, you may always pack any necessary medications and ensure they are stored correctly during your travels. 

Dog Travel Kit Packing Tips

Packing efficiently for your dog’s travel needs involves carefully organizing and prioritizing essential items while maximizing space and accessibility. Here’s some advice on how to pack items for your dog efficiently and suggestions for organizing the dog travel kit within a larger suitcase or backpack.

• Make a Checklist: Before you start packing, make a checklist of all the essential items your dog will need during the trip.
• Prioritize Essential Items: Identify the most essential items your dog will need immediate access to during travel, such as food, water, medications, and waste bags. Pack these items in a way that allows for easy retrieval without unpacking everything else.
• Use Packing Cubes or Bags: Consider using packing cubes or separate bags to organize your dog’s belongings within your larger suitcase or backpack. 
• Maximize Space: Utilize every inch of available space in your suitcase or backpack by strategically packing items to minimize wasted space. For example, roll up towels or bedding to save space and use smaller items to fill gaps or corners.
• Compact and Collapsible Gear: Opt for compact and collapsible versions of essential items whenever possible to save space. For example, choose collapsible food and water bowls, foldable travel beds or mats, and compact grooming tools that can easily fit into your bag without taking up too much room.
• Labeling and Organization: Label each packing cube or bag with its contents to make it easier to locate specific items quickly. This will help you stay organized and avoid rummaging through your bag to find what you need.

Overall, a well-prepared travel kit ensures you have everything you need to keep your dog safe, healthy, and comfortable while on the go, whether on a short road trip in a rental car or a longer journey. 

Sixt in the USA

• Car rental Orlando Airport
• Car rental JFK
• Car rental Dallas Airport
• Car rental Atlanta Airport
• Car rental Chicago Airport
• Car rental Denver Airport
• Car rental Houston Airport
• Car rental Miami Airport
• Car rental SeaTac Airport
• Car rental Las Vegas Airport
• Car rental LAX
• All Sixt US Locations
• Long-term car rental
• Luxury car rental

SIXT WORLDWIDE

All SIXT Services

Follow us on.

Money blog: 'We have never seen such a spike': Popular coffee brand issues price warning

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment or your Money Problem/consumer dispute (don't forget to leave a contact number/email) in the box below.

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:59, UK

• 'We have never seen such a spike': Popular coffee brand issues price warning
• Major four-day week trial being launched
• UK companies with best customer service revealed

Essential reads

• We asked beauty experts for their top dupes to give you a summer glow - without breaking the bank
• Michelin chef reveals £2 supermarket pasta that can elevate your dinners - as he picks his Cheap Eats in London
• Basically... What are the different ways of paying for a car?
• Women in Business : From blackouts to CEO - how burnout helped create UK's biggest venue booking platform
• Best deals on school uniform ahead of new academic year
• Further reading: Ian King answers your questions on what Labour government means for your personal finances

Ask a question or make a comment

The Danish capital might not be what comes to mind when you think of a cheap holiday - but if you're willing to help the community, you can earn yourself freebies and discounts. 

Under a new scheme being trialled, visitors to Copenhagen can claim anything from a free lunch or glass or wine to a free kayak rental. 

They can earn these freebies by completing tasks such as litter picking, travelling by public transport, cycling or volunteering in an urban garden. 

The CopenPay scheme is being trialled from 15 July until 11 August. 

Twenty-four attractions in the city are signed up to take part, including the Museum of Copenhagen - where you can claim a free coffee if you've walked there, travelled by bike or used public transport. 

On certain dates, you can earn a free one-hour GoBoat cruise around the city, or a 45-minute free bike ride with Donkey Republic. 

Officials have said if the trial is deemed a success, CopenPay could be rolled out throughout the year.

Yesterday it was the cost of tea that was on the rise, now it seems coffee isn't safe from imminent price hikes either... 

Caffeine lovers have been warned that the price of a cup of coffee could keep increasing for at least another year. 

Industry giant Lavazza said "very challenging headwinds" meant UK prices will not drop until the middle of 2025 at the earliest.

Poor harvests in Brazil and Vietnam, geopolitical conflict and supply chain disruption have all contributed to costs reaching record levels, said the group's chairman, Giuseppe Lavazza.

On Monday, prices reached an all-time high of £3,356 a tonne.

"We have never seen such a spike in price as the trend right now," said Mr Lavazza.

For consumers, this has meant the price of a 1kg bag of beans has already risen by 15% in a year. 

Mr Lavazza said this could increase by 20% to 25% over the next 12 months.

Meanwhile, a flat white at the firm's flagship cafe in London now costs £3.50 to take away or £5.50 to have in.

"We have faced very, very strong headwinds. I don't see any reason why coffee prices will go down," Mr Lavazza added. 

The UK retail coffee market is worth £1.3bn, growing by 3.9% year-on-year and driven by price inflation of 3.8%, according to Nielsen figures. 

Yesterday, the Indian Tea Board warned average tea prices could rise by up to 20% after extreme weather caused poor harvests. 

In the last week of June, the typical price of Indian tea leaves rose to more than £2 per kg, it said. 

You can read more about that here ... 

The UK's biggest supermarket chain has told customers its Express stores across England will close at 7.30pm instead of the usual 10pm or 11pm if the Three Lions reach the final of the Euros. 

It said the decision had been taken to allow its staff to get home or to the pub in time for kick-off at 8pm. 

Employees who do not want to watch the match will be paid as normal, it said. 

Stores will be open as normal the following morning. 

England are playing the Netherlands this evening in the semi-finals. 

If they get through, they will face Spain in the final - and will have the chance to become the first England men's team to win a major tournament since the World Cup in 1966. 

HSBC is increasing the amount it will lend for most mortgages.

At the same time, the bank is ditching its 65% and 80% loan-to-value offers.

The maximum amount of money that can be borrowed on an 85% LTV has risen the most, ballooning by 150%.

Here are the changes in full:

• 95% LTV: From £500,000 to £570,000
• 90% LTV: From £550,000 to £750,000
• 85% LTV: From £750,000 to £2m (or £1m for flats)
• 75% LTV: From £2m to £3m
• 70% LTV: Increased to lending over £3m

"This could make the difference between someone being able to buy the property they want or need, or having to compromise by buying a smaller property with fewer bedrooms, or maybe in an area that is outside the catchment area of their preferred school for their children," said Chris Pearson, HSBC UK's head of intermediary mortgages.

Campaigners are launching a major new four-day working week trial in the hopes of winning over the new government.

Participating companies will begin the scheme in November before the findings are presented to the government next summer.

Some 54 of the 61 companies that took part in the first 4 Day Week Campaign pilot continued to use it after the study finished.

Director Joe Ryle told  The Guardian he was optimistic a Labour government would be more receptive than the Conservatives.

"Change is in the air and we hope to see employers embracing this change by signing up to our pilot," he said. 

"The nine-to-five, five-day working week was invented 100 years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. We are long overdue an update."

You may remember we reported on the success of the first trial here...

The quality of customer service is deteriorating across the UK's biggest companies, according to a new report.

A survey of 60,000 people about 275 major firms found satisfaction levels were at their lowest since 2010.

Customers reported a decline in complaints handling, as well as worse customer experience and a more negative view of company ethics, the Institute of Customer Service found.

"The current outlook isn't where we need it to be, despite our research showing that higher levels of customer satisfaction correlate with financial stability and growth," said Jo Causon, chief executive of the Institute of Customer Service.

"Business leaders need to understand the evolving needs and expectations of their customers, developing their organisations' approach accordingly to unlock the sustainable growth the economy needs."

The ICS's Customer Satisfaction Index rates satisfaction on a scale out of 100, with the overall score across all 275 companies standing at 75.8, a drop of 0.8 points on a year ago and 2.6 points below its high of 78.4 in July 2022.

Utility providers were the worst offenders, with a satisfaction rating of 69.8 out of 100 - though it was the only industry to see a slight uptick (0.3 points).

Digging into the data further, and water companies - plagued by sewage spills and rising bills - were the most disappointing among utilities, dropping to 69.5 points.

Tourism, leisure, retail, banks, automotives, insurance, public services and transport industries all saw a decline.

Satisfaction fell fastest over the last year in the telecommunications and media sector, down 2.1 points to 73.3/100.

On the other end of the scale, Timpson, Nationwide and John Lewis scored highest among individual companies - between 85 and 86 points.

Taylor Swift, Elon Musk and Martin Lewis are among celebrities whose identities are commonly misused by scammers, data suggests.

Martin Lewis's face and name have been used to steal £20m over the last two years, MoneySavingExpert found after analysing Action Fraud figures.

Some £500,000 was reported lost to one scam featuring Mr Lewis.

"It's likely that the criminals pumping out these scam ads effectively use their own in-house dark web digital marketing teams, researching which celebrities and advert types get the best click through rates, and honing the way they work to be able to attract more victims," said Mr Lewis.

"If it's an ad with me in, it's always a scam, as I don't do adverts."

The King, Jeremy Clarkson and Rishi Sunak have also been used by scammers. 

MoneySavingExpert asked Action Fraud to supply the data based on a list of celebrities it had created after asking people on social media who they had seen in scam ads. 

"Topping this list is about the worst compliment I've ever had," said Mr Lewis.

Below are the top 10 high-profile figures whose identities have been misused, with the percentage of total mentions in scams:

Ticket scams are rife as criminals seek to cash in on the popularity of Swift's Era's tour.

Fans have lost out on an estimated £1m since UK tickets for her tour went on sale last July, according to data published by Lloyds Bank.

Mentions of cryptocurrency, investing, retirement planning and promises to get rich quick are also particular warning signs to look out for in scam ads, MoneySavingExpert warned.

Every Wednesday we ask Michelin chefs to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and when they cook at home. This week we speak to Benjamin Ferra Y Castell from one-starred  Pavyllon in London.

Hi Benjamin, can you tell us your favourite places in London where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

1. Saint George Cafe

This is a French bakery offering delicious sandwiches made with high-quality products. Their bread is made by a French baker with a specially selected flour. 

The pastries are also amazing - using high-quality butter and the chocolate used in the pain au chocolate makes it one of my best sweet treats in the city. On top of all of this, their coffee is some of the best in London.

2. Tachbrook Street Market  in Pimlico

This market is really affordable and convenient and away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria Station. 

I used to go with my wife who loves spicy food, especially to a Thai food stand on the left part of the market which is a must-try. 

If you come back often enough as I do, they sometimes give a nice discount! 

Authentic Thai food made with love, available for less than £10 for a substantial portion.

3. Bar Italia in Soho

Offers great Italian coffee with authentic products from different regions of Italy. 

You can try different sandwiches and they have an excellent burrata. They serve real coffee, how it should be made.

What is your "go-to" cheap eat to cook at home when you have a night in?

I would suggest a nice vegetable appetiser, something fresh and flavourful which is cheap and tasty as long as it's seasonal. 

At home, when the first heirloom tomatoes come into season, I slice them and season with olive oil, fresh herbs and some anchovies on top - seasoning generously is a must! 

Try to buy smart, local and according to the season - that's one of my favourite tips.

I also recommend a nice pasta when cooking at home, using a brand called Rummo (note from Money team: their range is available from Ocado for around £2), served alongside delicious seafood. 

Go early to Billingsgate fish market, to buy quality seafood direct from fisherman. It's also usually cheaper and always fresher. Plus, you can negotiate a bit!

We've spoken to lots of top chefs and bloggers - check out their cheap eats from around the country here...

By  James Sillars , business news reporter  

A stronger open for the FTSE 100 today after financial and energy stocks dragged yesterday. 

The index was 0.3% up at 8,161 following the 0.7% hit of the previous session.

Part of that decline was a double-edged sword as it was linked to lower oil prices.

In better news for drivers, Brent crude touched $84 a barrel and was a further 0.7% down as some market concerns over tight supplies eased.

Chinese economic data was also seen as pouring cold water on prospects for higher demand in the world's second-biggest economy.

Weaker profit estimates from BP also led the market down.

Companies reporting on their progress today included JD Wetherspoon.

The pub giant reported a 5.8% rise in comparable sales over the 10 weeks to 7 July.

It was likely aided by Euro 2024 and in spite of unseasonably wet weather, which has been blamed for hitting consumer spending more widely.

Its shares were 0.1% down in response.

The performance likely reflected the fact that the sales growth figure was lower than the 11% rise achieved in the same period last year.

Wetherspoons also highlighted cost pressures from wages and some products.

By Emily Mee, Money reporter

If TikTok is anything to go by, many of us are seeking that Sabrina Carpenter bronzed look this summer (me included). 

But without a pop star's team of make-up artists and the bank account to boot, how can the rest of us get that perfect glow? 

We've asked four beauty experts to give us their top affordable dupes for high-end products. Here's what they said (before one of them reveals the product you should never skimp on)... 

Suzanne Baum , freelance beauty editor

For Suzanne, affordable make-up brand e.l.f. can't be beaten for its dupes: "Super affordable, long-lasting and provides a perfect finish for a summer glow." 

These are her picks from the brand... 

e.l.f. Bronzing Drops, £12 

It's a dupe for... Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi drops, £34

"A nourishing tinted serum for a sun-kissed glow," she says. 

Just add one to three drops to your moisturiser, face oil or body cream.

e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter, £15 

It's a dupe for...  Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter, at £39

"A multi-purpose, liquid glow booster that gives your complexion a soft-focus social filter effect IRL," says Suzanne. 

Wear on its own for sheer coverage, under foundation as a luminous base, as a highlighter or mixed with foundation for a dewy glow.

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, £10 

It's a dupe for...  Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer, £35 

"A gel-based, hydrating face primer that smooths skin while gripping your make-up," Suzanne says. 

e.l.f. Halo Glow Contour Beauty Wand, £9 

It's a dupe for...  Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand, £30 

"A liquid contour wand with a cushion-tip applicator for a naturally sculpted complexion," the beauty expert says. 

Apply to your hairline, temples, sides of your nose, hollows of your cheeks and jawline, then blend with a brush. 

e.l.f. Camo Liquid Blush, £7

It's a dupe for.... Rare Beauty Soft Pink Liquid Blush, £24

"A long-lasting liquid blush that delivers a high pigment pop of colour to cheeks with a dewy finish," says Suzanne. 

e.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil, £8 

It's a dupe for... Dior Lip Glow Oil, £32 

"An ultra-glossy tinted lip oil that nourishes, hydrates and enhances your lips' natural colour," Suzanne says. 

Joyce Connor , make-up artist  

For Joyce, she'll often go for the high-end brands over dupes - but there was one product that she thought was even better than the original. 

Here are her picks... 

Revolution Pro CC Perfecting Skin Enhancer, £10

It's a dupe for... IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow, £37

The IT Cosmetics product is Joyce's go-to, but she says the Revolution version makes for a "very good" dupe. 

She says it gives a "nice glow without being shiny, because in the summer we don't want to be caked in make-up". 

It is worth noting that the IT Cosmetics version includes SPF 40, whereas the Revolution one does not. 

Apply before foundation for an added glow. 

Boots Glow Essence Serum, £5 

It's a dupe for... Glossier Future Dew Facial Oil Serum Hybrid, £30

There's quite a difference in price here, and Joyce says the Boots version gives a "nice sheen" under your foundation. 

However, she notes the Glossier product has a more golden tint. 

Massage two to three drops onto your skin before moisturising. 

Avon Radiance Ritual Touch Of Gold Body Oil, £5

It's a dupe for... Sol De Janeiro GlowMotions Glow Body Oil, £35

For added glow, massage into the skin and do not rinse - or you can use it as a bath oil. 

NYX Professional Makeup Fat Oil Lip Drip Lip Gloss, £7.99

It's a dupe for... Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil, £32

"To be honest, I prefer the Fat Oil to the Dior one," says Joyce, picking it out as her favourite dupe. 

"It lasted longer on my lips. I didn't have to top it up as quickly. I like the sheen of it. The colour was lovely," she raves. 

Sue Moxley , beauty expert  

Sue believes you don't have to spend a fortune to get quality products - and she's a fan of "good old" Revlon and L'Oreal. 

Revolution Fix and Glow Setting Spray, £8.99

It's a dupe for... Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter, £39

Okay, this isn't a direct dupe as it's a setting spray rather than a foundation. But Sue says if you pair this with your favourite foundation, it should give you that "wonderful flawless glow" similar to Flawless Filter. 

She recommends spraying it about 10 inches from your face all over and allowing it to dry for a few minutes. 

NYX Bare With Me Blur Tint Foundation, £9.99

It's a dupe for... Jones Road What the Foundation, £42

A good alternative to the trending Jones Road foundation is NYX's Bare With Me, which Sue says "smoothes pores but looks really light and natural". 

"Apply with a make-up brush all over your face for a professional finish," she says. 

Lacura Luminous Filter Foundation, £5

It's a dupe for... Clinique Even Better SPF15 Foundation, £34.50

TikTok went wild for this Aldi dupe, which Sue says is an alternative to the "high end glossy foundations". 

"It's such a bargain - it's definitely up there," she says. 

She recommends applying all over with a sponge, pressing rather than rubbing into the skin. 

Rimmel Natural Bronzer, £6.99 

It's a dupe for... Iconic London Kissed By the Sun Bronzer, £25

Sue says this is a light bronzer that "glides on easily with a blusher brush". 

Swirl it on the hollows of your cheeks, up to your temples, down underneath your jawline and on the bridge of your nose. 

So, how much difference is there between the dupes and the high-end products? 

You might be wondering just how noticeable the difference is if you go for the cheaper alternative. 

It's a difficult question to answer as it can vary from product to product - and not all the experts we spoke to were in total agreement. 

Sue Moxley says a lot of the lower end budget brands use similar ingredients to their more expensive counterparts. 

"You can get better packaging or the quality of the packaging is better, but it's also the brand name that is putting the prices up," she says. 

The high-end brands do put extra ingredients in, she says, but "they don't warrant the amount of difference in price". 

"It's still lovely to go and buy a Chanel lipstick or something and have it in your bag and it makes you feel wonderful. You get it out and it's gorgeous packaging and you put it on in the restaurant," she says.

"It does make you feel good, but I do believe that there are products out there that are equivalent in quality and ingredients wise." 

But Joyce Connor says the high-end brands are often worth it - although she does say you can "mix and match". 

More expensive brands rarely sell single-ingredient products, she says, and this can make a difference in terms of what you're getting. 

For example, she says an own-brand hyaluronic acid cream will often have that single ingredient but a similar product from a high-end brand will likely include peptides and ceramides - all providing extra value. 

One item not to skimp on

Joyce says if you're going to spend money on anything, it should be your moisturiser so you can get a perfect base for your make-up. 

"There are plenty of dupes out there that that are going to be effective as long as you are moisturising," she says. 

Her pick is the Goldfaden MD Vital Boost Even Skintone Daily Moisturiser - but at £60 for 50ml, that might be a bit much for some. 

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free