When preparing for a trip, are you constantly trying to think of everything important that you must pack- from swimwear to nightwear to various footwear for all occasions. I am terrible for this and usually spend ages writing lists and ticking off what I must remember and then spend the next few days trying to narrow it down to actually be able to fit it all in my backpack/suitcase. I am yet to master the art of light packing!
What do you consider to be the most important items that you cannot travel without?
I have put together a list of my essential items for travel. They made my life so much easier when I was travelling and I hope they can help you on your next trip too!
Contents
Power bank
My power bank is my number one item that I totally cannot go without. My iPhone battery is absolutely terrible and if I am using it often, it will barely last the day. I always carry my power bank with me just in case. This particular bank is a little larger than my phone but it weighs hardly anything and can charge can charge 3 devices at once and up to 7 times. It easily fits in a small side bag or bum bag. It was perfect when I was travelling on buses for long journeys with no power sockets or staying in places where there was no electricity like the amazon or in the middle of the Patagonian mountain range.
Adapter plug
This universal adapter plug was perfect for my worldwide trip. It has 3 USB charging ports and 1 type-c port meaning you can easily charge several devices at once such as your Iphone, Ipad, power bank, camera, go pro ect. It is compatible with over 200 countries from Europe to South America to Asia and Australia. If you’re planning a trip to multiple destinations or you want to save the hassle of having to purchase different adapter plugs, this is the perfect device.
Micro fibre towel
If you like to pack everything but the kitchen sink like me, you will appreciate how much room a towel usually takes up in your backpack/case. Yes, you can buy normal beach towels which are thinner, however they can take a long time to dry. A microfibre towel is perfect as it is very lightweight and compact and it dries a lot quicker than the usual towel.
A protective purse/wallet
To be truthfully honest, I never even considered purchasing one of these before my travels and what a big mistake that was. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil my card was cloned within the first week of my travels- I didn’t even use it at a machine or to pay for anything so it had to have been cloned through my purse I assume? If I had used one of these, it probably wouldn’t have happened so yeh, I learned an important lesson. Literally a few days later, I purchased one of these protective wallets and made sure I kept my cards in here at all times. They are cheap and easily fit in a range of cards. You can also get a range of colours and designs. Better to be safe than sorry!
Packing cubes
I was quite hesitant about purchasing these after hearing mixed reviews. Some people say they take up more space and others say they couldn’t manage without them. I thought, why not try them and see for myself? I purchased the mixed pack and received around 6 different sized cubes/bags. I decided to pack each one with different clothing-underwear, tops, trousers and shorts, beach wear. They were perfect as they allowed me to compress the clothes, meaning I could fit more items inside and they also kept everything separate and organised. Whenever I wanted a t-shirt or a certain pair of shorts, I could literally just open the one bag/cube and find the item, rather than rummaging through the whole backpack.
Waterproof phone case
This item is great for using your phone in the sea/pool or on any water excursion activities. The secure lock mechanism enables you to completely seal the case shut and the neck strap enables you to carry it with you and keep it within easy reach. The material makes it easy to scroll and use your phone without having to get it out of the case- perfect for taking pictures or videos.
Waterproof dry bag
These bags are super cool and literally protect everything from getting wet. I never bought one prior to my trip but totally wish I had. They would have been so useful for boat trips, waterfalls, water sports and even for torrential rain… you never know! I saw so many people using them in ASIA and thought… I need to get myself one of those.
Selfie stick
Taking pictures of yourself when you’re travelling solo can be a challenge. Often, I will look for ‘trustworthy’ strangers to take them for me, however they often don’t do the best job. A selfie stick is fairly small and compact and perfect for taking pictures. When taking selfies, it gives you that extra length that you cannot get with just your arm and therefore allows you to capture much better pictures. At first, I would cringe a little at using it, but now everyone has them… who cares?
Money belt
A money belt is perfect for keeping your money/cards and personal items safe and secure. It is very lightweight and discreet, meaning you can wear it comfortably against the skin without anyone recognising. It is perfect for daily use. When travelling around South America, I wore this money belt to ensure my belongings were hidden and completely safe.
What are your essential travel items? Please comment I would love to know 🙂
Disclaimer: I am recommending these products because I personally use them myself, think they are great and are perfect for travelling. This post contains some affiliate links. If you purchase items via the links, I may earn a very small commission at no extra cost to yourself.
Thanks Briony
Really informative. I’ll definitely get the wallet and the money belt. Might check the waterproof bag as well.
Hi Sunita.
Great thank you, hope it helps.