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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 🙂

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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…

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18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

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

Sure, some necessities are obvious — toiletries, medications, snacks, phones — we know you’ll pack those. 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/Purse Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet Travelambo Purse

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.

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

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Lauren De Almeida

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

18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

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

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

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Wallet and passport holder

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

Phone charger and adapter

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

Reusable water bottle

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

RELATED:   What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Hand sanitizer

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

Skincare products

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

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

RELATED:   JS Editors’ Picks: 18 Items We’re Crushing on Now

Travel journal and pen

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

Walking shoes

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

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

RELATED:   21 Gift Ideas for the Stylish Traveler

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

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

Weather-dependent items

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

RELATED: 18 Shoes We’re LOVING for Summer 2019

Travel pillow

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

Toiletry bag

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

First aid kit

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

RELATED:   The Carry-On Luggage You Need Now

Travel wrap or scarf

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

Book or e-reader

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

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

Traveling? Consider These Luggage Options

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The Ultimate Packing Guide: 29 Must Have Travel Essentials

Must-have travel essentials: the ultimate packing guide written by a travel blogger.

Looking for the must-have travel essentials to help pack for a trip? I got you covered! Overpacking is a problem many people deal with when getting ready for a trip. It can be overwhelming to narrow down the necessities. Whether you’re heading out for a short weekend trip or embarking on a long-haul flight, having a well-curated list of must-have travel essentials can make all the difference. It’s important to bring along the essentials that will make your journey comfortable and stress-free.

Being the avid traveler that I am, I have perfected my vacation packing list with items that will make your life much easier when traveling. Forget overpacking and let’s get streamlined for your next destination. From luggage and travel accessories to clothing and toiletries, this guide will cover everything you need to know to make the most out of your travels. So you can be well-equipped with must-have travel essentials to hop on that flight and be prepared!

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking one of these links at no additional cost to you. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share only products I truly use and love!

Best Carry-On Luggage

As a travel blogger, I am constantly on the go. When it comes to the dilemma of “to carry on or to not carry on” I always choose the latter. Who wants to deal with the drama of missing luggage? Not I! That’s why I always bring a carry-on suitcase (as well as a checked one because a girl needs her options).

I couldn’t recommend the Monos Carry-on Pro more. One of the best travel items to invest in. Monos has sleek carry-on luggage equipped with loads of interior pockets to help keep you organized on the go. They also include a lifetime warranty when purchasing so you can ensure you’ll have this suitcase for years to come. For my friends on a budget, consider this affordable Amazon version that has great reviews.

Best Checked Luggage

When choosing checked luggage, it’s important to pick a sturdy suitcase that’s easy to maneuver and has enough space for all your essentials. I would love to be the type of traveler to only bring a carry-on but I need options. This Monos large check-in is a literal lifesaver on long journey travels.

I packed 2.5 weeks of a Fall Europe adventure into this one suitcase alone. It has an unbreakable shell and ample compartments and zipper pockets to keep you organized while you’re on the go. The wheels are 360 degrees and are extremely quiet when barrelling through airports. Finally, if you’re on a budget consider this Amazon Checked Bag .

Best Travel Bags for Every Type of Traveler

Travel tote.

A travel tote is a great addition to your packing list and will help carry those extra items that didn’t fit in a carry-on. A good travel tote should be sturdy, spacious, and lightweight, with multiple compartments to help you stay organized. I love this Tote from BEIS because it’s so versatile and it goes with everything. It also has an insert that fits on your suitcase handle and a crossbody strap. All the options! Finally, it allows you to keep your essentials close at hand and provides a convenient way to stay organized on the go. For my friends on a budget consider this Amazon Travel Tote .

PRO TRAVEL TIP: Don’t pack out the tote before leaving. The reason is you’ll never know what you’ll pick up on your travels so leave space for a few souvenirs.

Travel Backpack

If you’re traveling from city to city with multiple stops then a travel backpack is the way to go! Don’t get me wrong, traveling with a tote is chicer however traveling with a backpack is more comfortable. Especially for long travel journeys. I use a backpack on most trips and have loved this Lululemon Backpack for years. It fits way more than you would expect it to! I’m able to fit my cosmetic hanging case, a Canon camera, an extra lens, my laptop, a baseball cap, and my AirPod Max headphones. All in this one bag. Don’t underestimate this backpack! For a more affordable option check out this one from Amazon .

Travel Weekender

If you need more space than a tote or a backpack then pick up this Weekender Bag . This weekend bag from Beis is great because it not only fits under the seat but is made of cloth fabric which makes it super durable. Along with that, it has a padded laptop pocket and a zippered shoe pocket at the bottom to bring that extra pair (because we always need that extra pair right ladies?). No lie, you can fit 3 pairs of shoes on the bottom of this bag. It’s incredible for space saving! Finally, check out this budget-friendly Amazon Weekend Bag .

Must-Have Travel Essentials Gear

Best packing cubes.

If you have never packed with packing cubes before, I urge you to try (and then thank me later). When packing, using packing cubes not only help with organization, but you can simply transport the cubes from your suitcase to a hotel dresser with much ease. Unpacking while on a trip has never been easier! Finally, if you’re traveling with your significant other, the hack is to purchase two sets (two different colors). This keeps us organized and easily distinguishes which cubes are whose. Finally, I’ve been using packing cubes for years now and can not leave home without them!

Beis Packing Cube Set

Amazon Packing Cube Set

Travel Containers for Liquids

Who wants to lug full-size beauty products on a trip? Not me! When purchasing travel containers it’s the perfect way to save space. I swear by these Amazon travel containers . They come in a pack of 4 with a bag for only $12. Talk about a steal! I’ve been on countless trips and so far there has been no spillage. It’s not easy to find containers that don’t leak. Finally, you’re feeling like you want to be extra cautious consider using a plastic bag to cover the opening of the container after you fill it. Then twist the top on top of the bag.

Cosmetic Case

Having all of your cosmetics in one place is the only way to do it when traveling, ladies. Who wants to scramble to find their moisturizer when you have a new destination to explore? By purchasing a roomy cosmetic case you are saving time by digging through that pack. This case fits all of my makeup and skincare items needed and the hanging option is a great option to have. Finally, I can fit this exact case in my travel backpack with lots of room to spare.

Travel Portable Charger

Nothing is worse than running out of phone battery while you’re in a foreign city or even traveling domestically. Do yourself a favor and purchase this portable battery charger so you never have to worry. This rechargeable power bank is my go-to comes in a pack of two so you never run out of juice. Furthermore, it charges your phone fast so you can continue on your journey with a full battery.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

These are my most used items when on a long flight. Nobody wants to hear babies crying or loud people amid conversation when on a long flight. The worst is when someone chooses to watch their phone without headphones cue the eye roll. Do yourself a favor and get these AirPod Max Noise Cancelling headphones so you can sit back and relax. I have had these for a year now and nothing has made my travels more stress-free. You literally cannot hear anything with these on. Finally, for a less expensive version, albeit with similar qualities, check this Amazon pair out !

AirFly Adapter

When traveling, I don’t like to use the headphones that the airlines give out. For many reasons. One they’re not noise canceling and two the output is so old. Since we are now in the 21st century there is an AirFly adapter that I just started using recently. This allows you to plug into the screen on your seat and listen with your headphones. Such a game changer when traveling with others too because there are two outputs. This means your partner and you can watch the movie together.

Travel Water Bottle

Don’t spend money on overpriced plastic water bottles at the airport. Instead, bring your reusable one. One of the best useful travel tips out there. Every airport has filtered fountains that are free to fill up your water. It’s so important to hydrate when traveling so you can arrive at your destination refreshed. But don’t forget to make sure it’s empty before going through security. Finally, for the exact collapsible water bottle I use, pick up this Amazon water bottle that’s perfect for extra space-saving.

Travel Wrap

One of my most used essentials for travel is a cashmere wrap. It can serve many purposes on a long-haul flight. You can wear it as a scarf, roll it up to use it as a pillow, or simply wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket when the cabin gets chilly (which it always does. let’s be real). This cashmere wrap is a bit of a splurge (think investment piece) but you’ll have it for years to come! I included a more affordable option from Amazon as well.

Silk Eye Mask

A silk eye mask is a must-have travel accessory that can make a big difference in the quality of your sleep when you’re on the go. When traveling, it’s not always easy to get a good night’s sleep. Whether you’re on a long-haul flight or staying in a hotel room with unfamiliar surroundings. A silk eye mask can help block out light and create a soothing environment for better sleep.

In addition to helping you get better sleep, silk eye masks can also provide a range of other benefits when traveling. They can help alleviate dry eyes and prevent puffiness, as well as provide a sense of privacy and relaxation in crowded or noisy environments.

Travel Adapter

If you have ever traveled abroad and were not able to use your curling iron, I feel for you! The electrical outlets in Europe use a different voltage and plug shape than those in North America, which means that if you plug in a device without an adapter, it could get damaged. When traveling to other countries it’s always smart to bring a travel adapter so you can use your electronics with no issue. Finally, we have this Amazon Adapter that has 4 international adapters for multiple countries.

A Straw Hat (Spring/Summer)

Packing a hat is high on the travel essentials list, especially when traveling to warm weather climates. If you want to lay by the pool and protect that precious face or just sightsee and stay nice and cool – make sure to pack a hat! I love my Brixton fedora so much that I own it in 3 colors. Packing Tip: pack the top of the hat with clothing and then surround the hat in your suitcase with soft clothing so it doesn’t bend.

Baseball Cap or Beanie (Fall/Winter)

For colder weather climates I always have a beanie or baseball cap on hand. For multiple reasons. One of which is that if my hair is greasy from traveling long days I can throw it on and look put together.

For trips where I’m active and outdoors, I always pack my oversized visor . It protects my face from the sun and I don’t have to worry about ruining it because it was only $17. Sure it may be a little dorky but your girl is a skincare queen so I’d rather that than get sun on my face when being outdoors all day.

Face Moisturizer

Being on a plane for multiple hours can dry anyone out. Don’t arrive at your destination with dry skin! Instead, use this Kiehl moisturizer to keep your skin looking nice and refreshed. I don’t leave home without it, especially when traveling.

Disinfectant Wipes + Hand Sanitizer

One word: Coronavirus. Let’s not forget 2020, the year that took the travel industry by storm. One of the most essential travel items is disinfectant wipes. When traveling it’s best to wipe your entire seat, TV, window, and tray table with disinfectant wipes BEFORE sitting down. I’m also linking my favorite shields for those who want extra protection.

Warm-weather or not, outside or inside, sunscreen is a necessity that everyone needs to use daily. For face sunscreen, I couldn’t recommend Elta MD more. You want to make sure you are always using broad-spectrum sunscreen because it protects against UVA and UVB rays. Elta MD is a dermatologist approved and ever since I started using it, I have never broken out. It’s my holy grail skincare item and if I could only pick a few essentials for travel, this would be top of my list!

Sunscreen Brush

Ok, this sunscreen brush is my new favorite item! When traveling, I tend to have a full face of makeup, and reapplying sunscreen in the middle of the day is tough when you are wearing makeup. Cue the SuperGoop sunscreen brush , the easiest way to re-apply sunscreen on the go. It’s truly a lifesaver and has come in handy during my recent travels.

Another travel packing list to check off is lip balm. Unfortunately, many people suffer from chapped lips when there is a climate change. This Summer Friday Lip Balm is the best for chapped lips. It goes on so smoothly and is not sticky like most other lip balms.

Body Lotion

Ladies, how much do you spend on skincare products? Now ask yourself, how much do you spend on body products? If you are like me, you would pick up whatever lotion was on sale at Target. But let me tell you when I started using Necessaire products the skin on my body never looked better! Not only does this lotion have niacinamide in it but it’s fragrance-free and it’s a must when packing my bags. You can shop for all the goods here .

Travel Card

If you are an avid traveler then one of the best travel products to invest in is a travel card. You can receive many perks such as free upgrades, free flights, and even a companion certificate so your companion can fly for free once a year (within the US). I use the American Express Delta card for everything and we use our miles to book flights quite often. Last year my husband and I flew to Europe and back for $100. It has an annual fee of $250 and you receive tons of benefits. If you use my Amex referral code you can currently get 50,000 bonus miles signing up!

Must-Have Travel Essentials Checklist

Below I covered the ultimate trip packing list for you to check off before your flight. Screenshot this travel packing checklist to help you plan:

Best Packing Tips from a Travel Blogger

Over the past 10 years, I have learned quite a few packing tips. I’m spilling the tea below!

• Use packing cubes! It’s the best way to organize and save space and time while traveling
• Roll your dresses altogether. Start by laying them all flat on top of each other and fold in the corners then roll and pack in a packing cube. You will save so much space
• The same can be applied to tops
• Pack socks and accessories inside your shoes
• Consider travel compression bags for heavier items. I use these when I travel in the fall/winter to pack sweaters and I’m always pleasantly surprised by how well they work
• If you’re not using a travel-safe container then use plastic wrap underneath the caps of your toiletry items

Well, there you have it. If you use this “Must Have Travel Essentials Packing List”, you will be more than prepared! Thanks for reading this must-have travel essentials post and check out more of my travel guides !

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March 9, 2024 at 10:59 pm

Love this post! As a frequent traveler, I can attest to the importance of packing the right essentials. I’ve found that a portable charger and a travel pillow are absolute game changers. Definitely saving this guide for my next trip!

March 10, 2024 at 12:28 pm

happy to hear that! safe future travels!

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35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

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

For Overnight Trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weekend Trips and Excursions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two Weeks or Longer

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

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

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

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

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

A Month or More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Editor’s Picks

The Ultimate List of Travel Essentials

By CNT Editors

The secret to packing smart will not be found in a YouTube tutorial. (Rolling socks? How innovative!) The real trick, as our perpetually on-the-road editors will tell you, is to find those brilliantly designed lifesavers, like a natural hand sanitizer that won’t offend the entire cabin, headphones that will make coach as silent as a Zen garden, and these other balms, bags, and gear we can’t stop talking about.

This story was originally published in May 2017 and has been updated with new information.

In-Flight Beauty

Fake a Good Night Sleep: “For those of us too vain to get on an overnight flight sans makeup, these wipes clean, exfoliate, hydrate, and prep skin for that pre-landing swipe of bronzer.” — Rebecca Misner, West Coast Editor

Buy Now: Ursa Major, Essential Face Wipes, $24 for pack of 20, huckberry.com

Three Products In One: “I use this balm as a makeup remover, face cleanser, and moisturizer. Also it smells like vacation: a not-too-sweet blend of coconut, vanilla, and mango.” — Lauren DeCarlo, Deputy Editor

Buy Now: One Love Organics, Skin Savior Multi-Tasking Wonder Balm, $49, thedetoxmarket.com

Like Q-Tips, But Better: “Twist the swab and the tip becomes moistened with a cleanser that gently removes eye makeup.” — R.M.

Buy Now: Too Cool for School, Dinoplatz Magic Wand, $12.90, amazon.com

Stay Superhydrated: “Unlike most face serums that reek of essential oils, this one has a nice nutty smell and dispenses neatly through a tiny pump.” — Alex Postman, Features Director

Buy Now: Malaya Organics, Rejuvenating Face Serum, $75, amazon.com

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Keep It Healthy

If You're Headed to the Zika Zone: “I love that this organic, essential oil-based bug spray—which actually works—smells like cedar, geranium, and rosemary instead of a high school chem lab.” — R.M.

Buy Now: Zoe Organics, Insect Repellent, $19.95, dermstore.com

For the Germophobe: “I semi-obsessively use this sanitizer on my seat and tray table every time I fly. Nobody minds, though: the light scent of mandarin rind and rosemary leaf are quite welcome in economy." — Mara Balagtas, Style Editor

Buy Now: Aesop, Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash, $10, shop.nordstrom.com

The Accessories

Yep, We Are Pro–Fanny Pack: “Say what you will, but a flush-against-your-hip bag like this is the easiest place to stash your boarding pass and phone.” — Pilar Guzmán, Editor in Chief

Buy Now: Clare V., Fannypack, $259, clarev.com

The Packable Brim: “Finally a Panama hat sturdy enough to survive getting crammed in an overhead bin.” — M.B.

Buy Now: Janessa Leoné, Adriana, $207, janessaleone.com

The Classic Shades: “The original folding pair of lenses that pack super small; in tortoiseshell they go with everything.” — P.G.

Buy Now: Persol, PO714, $370, sunglasshut.com

Featherweight Kicks: “Head-spinningly light, they pack down to almost nothing so I don’t have to give up my morning run .” — Erin Florio, Senior Editor

Buy Now: APL 'Techloom Pro' Running Shoe, $139.95, shop.nordstrom.com

High and Low Tech

Make Movie Magic: “So long to shaky hands and bad vacation videos: This gimbal keeps your smartphone shots Kubrick smooth.” — Phil Falino, Video Producer

Buy Now: DJI, Osmo Mobile 2, $139, store.dji.com

Dance Party in Room 204: “It’s got tremendous sound and nearly endless battery life, but the real kicker is that this waterproof Bluetooth speaker floats.” — Paul Brady, Articles Editor

Buy Now: Ultimate Ears, Wonderboom, $67.99, amazon.com

The Best Way to Stay Charged, Period: "You never know where that hotel room outlet is going to turn up, so I carry extra-long twin-head cables that can charge my phone and a speaker." — Paulie Dibner, Managing Editor

Buy Now: Native Union, Belt Cable Twin Head, $39.99, nativeunion.com

What to Wear

The Blazer: “This classic shape, with a little stretch, pulls together a look, particularly if you’re rushing off the plane to a meeting.” — M.B.

Buy Now: J. Crew, Regent Blazer, $198, jcrew.com

No Breaking In Necessary: “These ultra lightweight boots feel like your most comfortable sneakers right out of the box, so there's no need to spend the week before your trip breaking them in.“ — Andrea Whittle, Contributor

Buy Now: Danner Women's Mountain 600, $200, danner.com

Maybe the Best Airplane Pants Ever: "These pants were made for travel. They're flexible enough incase you find yourself sprinting to your gate and comfortable enough to withstand an 8-hour flight. I love to throw them on in the morning while I'm running out to the nearest cafe to grab a coffee. — A.W.

Buy Now: Lululemon, On the Fly Pant, $98, shop.lululemon.com

Packing Upgrades

Dead-Simple Organization : "Not only do they make you a far better packer, but packing cubes are ideal for multi-city vacations. Plus, you can snap them up in fun, eye-popping colors." — Lale Arikoglu, Digital Lifestyle Editor

Buy Now: Paravel, Packing Cube Trio, $55, tourparavel.com

A Solution for Swim Trunks: “When you’re roadtripping with kids who can’t resist a hotel pool, these waterproof totes are everything.” — A.P.

Buy Now: Flight 001, Go Clean Wet Suit Bag, $18, amazon.com

Tame Carry-On Clutter: “I keep receipts, business cards, and other stuff tidy in this textured vinyl pouch—in sunflower yellow—that looks like Comme des Garçons.” — E.F.

Buy Now: Delfonics, Quitterie Pouch, $22.10, amazon.com

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing List

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35 Travel Essentials to Gift Your Favorite Globetrotter

Smart packing can make (or break) a trip.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Shopping for a family member or friend who's always on the go? Whether they're jetting off to an tropical beach or roadtripping to a national park, you can give them something thoughtful to help their travels go more smoothly.

No matter the trip, they’ll be glad to have these useful travel essentials on hand. We included items to help them when they’re last-minute packing , going through security, and exploring the great outdoors. From waterproof sandals to bug repellent to packing cubes for any suitcase , you can be sure you’ll be giving a gift they’ll actually use. With all this talk of travel, you might even want to snag a few of these essentials for your next vacation.

If you're looking for some discounted options, check out these travel essentials on sale on Amazon.

Cable Organizer

There’s nothing more frustrating than having to untangle your many cables after stuffing them in your carry-on. Avoid that hot mess by packing a cable organizer to keep everything in order while you’re not using (or charging) your gadgets.

More: 20 Spring Break Essentials for a Stress-Free Vacation

Travel Backpack

A travel backpack is one of the easiest ways to keep everything they need at hand (purse, wallet, phone, keys, technology, passport, you name it) safe in one place. This backpack is not only perfectly compartmentalized to hold their laptop and other belongings, but it also opens from the top, giving the feel of a tote without having to carry it on one shoulder.

The best part? It even has a built-in USB port so they can recharge their devices while traveling (charging cord not included).

One by Sonicare Battery Toothbrush

A toothbrush that comes with a case is non-negotiable and with a 3-month battery life, this Philips electric toothbrush is one they’ll want to use at home, too.

Travel Blanket and Pillow

Sure, they could bring a blanket from home, but it certainly isn’t as compact as a travel one — and does it zip up to double as a pillow? I didn’t think so.

Seriously, a travel blanket is truly game-changing, even on short trips with multiple people. They never know who will want the AC blasting while they're cold, so it’s always best to be prepared.

Laundry Bag

Remind them to bring along this travel essential so their dirty laundry doesn’t pile up on the floor, or worse, mingle with the clean clothes in their luggage. This compact laundry bag is especially important if your recipient is the type of traveler who lives out of their suitcase for the duration of the trip.

Travel Bottles

Since traveling with glass bottles is risky, and buying individual travel-size products can get expensive quickly, having reusable silicone travel containers is definitely the best option.

This travel essential is also much more environmentally friendly than buying TSA-approved products in plastic bottles every time they go on a trip. Saving money and the environment is definitely a win-win.

Travel Shoe Bags

Perhaps one of the few downsides to trekking around a new city, state, or even country is taking those dirty shoes off and packing them away with your clothes. Safe to say that nobody wants the dirt and germs from the bottom of their feet to rub all over their otherwise clean items!

These shoe bags are the perfect travel essential for keeping your recipient's filthy soles off their silky drawers when packing before or after a trip.

Packing Cubes (6 Pieces)

There’s nothing worse than laying out everything you want to pack for a trip and then realizing that you don’t have the room. Cubes are an easy way to keep your recipient's suitcase organized and help them free up space for the essentials.

Even better? This set comes with shoe sleeves, so they can avoid having their dirty shoes come into contact with their clean clothes.

PowerStation Portable Charger

This handy little device lets your recipient avoid having to fight over outlets on their vacation. Now everyone can juice up their gadget at the same time. It’s on them to remember all the cords, though.

Vacuum Storage Bags Variety Pack

If packing cubes just aren’t cutting it, compression bags are the solution for your recipient. These ones by Spacesaver work with any vacuum and come in a variety of different sizes for their packing needs.

Portable Perfume Spray Bottle

With this travel essential, they’ll be able to pack their favorite scents, while leaving the bulky bottle at home. This set includes two portable perfume spray bottles, each lightweight and easy to fill.

Magnetic Capsules

From serums to earrings to medication, these magnetic capsules stick together and make traveling with every step of their skincare routine less of a hassle. You can customize the color and label of each capsule for a personalized gift.

Pack This! Pad Packing List Notepad

The notepad will be just the thing they turn to when they know they’re forgetting something, but just can’t place it. From important prescriptions to insect repellent, it lists all the items they’ll need to remember to have on hand for a stress-free trip.

Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask

Whether your recipient is traveling on a long-haul flight or relaxing poolside with a cold drink in hand, this travel essential will boost their skin’s moisture in just 15 minutes for a skincare moment even on vacation.

Made with red algae extract, this single use sheet mask from Tatcha will hydrate their skin, leaving them with a luminous complexion.

Suction Tool

Between the itchiness and swollen, red appearance, bug bites are the last things anyone wants to deal with, especially while traveling. The Bug Bite Thing will remove the irritant from their skin to reduce itching and swelling. No creams or chemicals necessary.

Original Detangler Hair Brush

Detangling post-pool hair is the last thing they’ll want to be doing on vacation. The detangling brush works on dry or wet hair and has flexible bristles that will gently loosen knots and reduce breakage.

Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera

Most people have fallen into the habit of just using their phones to capture photos while traveling, but there’s nothing quite like having a print of all of your favorite memories.

This instant camera has automatic exposure and a one-touch selfie mode for capturing the perfect vacation selfie with ease. It comes in fun colors to match your recipient’s aesthetic.

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

The latest AirPods Pro are still sweat- and water-resistant, but also have improved noise cancellation, an extended battery life, and different ear tips for a custom fit that’ll keep them in place. They're great for a long run on the beach and blocking out noisy passengers on their flight.

KN95 5-Ply Breathable Filter Disposable Masks

No matter the destination, these best-selling, disposable KN95 masks are a travel essential. They’re filtered yet breathable, and the black makes them a touch more elevated than standard surgical masks. Keep them germ-free on the go with a mask storage case .

Travel Hand Sanitizer (6-Pack)

Let’s be real — does anyone go anywhere without this anymore? I hope not. Traveling, of course, should be no different. If they skip out on some of the other items in this list, don’t let hand sanitizer be one of those missing things.

Elisabeth Narine is the Associate Editor, Reviews at Best Products , where she spends her time interviewing experts and scouring the internet for the best gift ideas for every occasion. Her work can also be found on BuzzFeed and Forbes Vetted . She uses her love of shopping, pop culture, and cooking to help guide her search for the perfect gift.

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The Best Travel Essentials Checklist for Every Type of Trip

If you’re anything like me, you can’t wait to plan your next holiday and take part in the next holiday celebrations. Travelling can be thrilling and eye-opening, but most of us despise the packing and preparation phases, especially when you take the weather, temperature, and climate into account.

Packing a carry-on, demands a strategic strategy, whether you’re using a backpack or a suitcase, and to ensure you include TSA-friendly items to keep by your side while travelling to your destination.

The task of packing can be the torment of your existence, but we have created a Complete packing list to make the task a bit less onerous for you. Got a significant trip coming up? Make use of this comprehensive list to serve as a reminder of the vital items, such as sunglasses, shower gel, socks and clothing, that you must get before departing on your trip.

It’s not simple to know how to pack for a lengthy journey. But just use this as a packing list, checking each thing off as you go. Obviously, it depends on the type of trip you’re planning, whether it’s a mountain walk or a trans-European train journey, so we’ve made an effort to include products that are appropriate for all kinds of journeys.

Don’t forget the travel essentials ! From toiletries to electronics, this guide has everything you need to pack in your travel bag for a stress-free trip.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

How to Create the Perfect Travel Checklist for Packing?

To create a checklist of packing items, you might want to keep in mind the itinerary and activities during your trip. Also, start early with enough time in hand before the travel. Determine the trip details, specific needs and the personal and general essential items. Pack considering the climate, travel restrictions, and duration. Use the below tips to help you packing. 

Start With the Basics: Create a list of most-needed items like travel documents, passports, insurance documents, checks, medication etc.

Pack According to the Activities: When it comes to packing clothes, shoes, personal care items always keep in mind what activities you will do during the trip. Think about the climate, weather and create a travel itinerary beforehand to help you pack.

Travel Duration:  According to the travel duration, you will require clothes, undergarments, sanitary items and other personally preferred items. Pack accordingly but don’t overdo it.

Travel Restrictions: research thtouroughly about  laws or restrictions of your destination that may limit what you can bring. This includes limitations on liquids, sharp objects, or particular things that might be  illegal in some nations.

Categorise Items: Divide your travel checklist into categories and use packing cubes or separate compartments in the bag to organise them. Write the categories like clothing, accessories, documents, miscellaneous in your checklist and fill in the items as per your destination and activities.

 The most effective technique to pack a backpack is to minimise space. Keep in mind to pack heavy items towards the bottom, liquids that leak into plastic bags, and items you’ll need right away (like toiletries) at your destination. If folding takes up more space, roll your garments instead.

This guide applies to all types of luggage, not only backpacks for air travel but also road trip essentials. Remember everything, and have a safe and enjoyable trip!

Top 16 Travel Essentials For All Trips

1. passport.

The most crucial item to pack for your trip is your passport, which should go without saying. Without it, you won’t make any progress. One final check for that crucial little book won’t hurt after you’ve completed your pre-trip checklist and before you step outside the door. 

Make sure your passport is up to date before departing. Check your passport’s expiration date well in advance so you can order a replacement before your trip, as it’s occasionally required to have at least six months left on it.

 2. Pharmaceuticals and hygiene products

Any necessary hygiene or medical supplies are the last thing you want to neglect while travelling. Although you can easily buy more deodorant to stay fresh when travelling, it is much more crucial to remember prescriptions because they will be really challenging to replace once you get to your location.

Contact lenses, birth control, prescription eyewear, and any other drugs fall under this category. Moreover, Women can typically arrange a trip around their menstrual cycle, but occasionally, things come up.

Being on a trip without sanitary products may be quite expensive and uncomfortable, especially when you need them. Make it a routine going forward to pack a few extras. Having those travel essentials for women and not needing them is preferable to not having those travel essentials for women and needing them.

3.  Refillable water bottle

You’ll need to drink water frequently if you’re hiking for an entire day through a national park or spending hours walking through city streets. Bringing a refillable bottle with you is usually a good idea because it’s not always simple to find water in some places, not to mention how unbearably hot or humid it can be.

Sure, you could rely on buying water bottles when you get there, but these options aren’t always available, especially in remote or wooded locations or in hotels or popular tourist destinations where water is frequently expensive, therefore making it an essential pack for a trip.

4. Travel Insurance:

If you have travel insurance , always carry it with yourself. The travel insurance is required in case of loss of passport, personal belonging, baggage, or any other situations where you may experience financial loss. Travel insurances are always right to put in for international travels.

In some countries health plans also cover travel insurance or any other medical issues during travel. If you are a frequent traveller this must be worth your money.

5 . Credit Card/ Debit Card/ Traveller’s Check:

Carry your debit card or traveller’s check even though you are carrying cash. While carrying cash for all your essential costs, carrying cards for huge payments like accommodation, foods bring your acceptable cards. For cashing local currency, also bring your travellers’ checks.

6. A universal plug adaptor and portable power banks

When you’re travelling, you’re more likely to use your phone for things like pulling up boarding tickets, searching up locations to go and routes to those areas, staying in touch with friends and family back home, and shooting hundreds of photographs.

All of this depletes your power, and it might be inconvenient to interrupt your touring agenda to charge your phone. Furthermore, power outlets are seldom guaranteed. That is why it is always a good idea to have a portable power bank with you as an essential for travelling. Power banks store electricity in your pocket for convenient access and are typically not too pricey.

Moreover, outlets in the US are a different size from outlets overseas, which means if you intend to use electronic devices in a different country, you’ll need an Universal Power Adapter to charge and start a range of devices, including MP3 players, digital cameras, mobile phones, GPS, PDAs, travel speakers, etc.

7. Toiletries & Quick-dry Towel

While bus excursions and tube rides are entertaining, they are not necessarily the cleanest areas. You’ll probably have to grip “high touch” devices like remote controls, light switches, telephones, doorknobs, tap handles and so on while travelling, so keep cleanliness in mind to avoid disease.

Because washing your hands isn’t always an option, bring a couple towelettes with you. Also tiny wipes should pass through security without incident. Towels come in handy frequently, and you never know when one will come in handy. Perhaps you spilt something on your clothes or were caught in a downpour and needed to dry off immediately.

Or perhaps you arrived at your hotel or Airbnb only to discover that no towels were provided. Quick-drying towels aren’t the most luxury option, but they’re light and easy to pack. Most importantly, they dry quickly, allowing you to clean up and stow it quickly.

8. A packable rucksack / backpack

We repeatedly overpack our carry-on bags. We plan to carry a torch, cameras, hats, sunglasses, a change of clothing, reading material, snacks, lip-balm, flip-flops or sandals, rain jacket, wet wipes and tissues, and toiletries in case our checked luggage gets misplaced.

However, all of these things rapidly pile up leaving us with very little space in our rucksack which is again one of the most essential things for travelling. And we typically don’t want to take them all with us while we travel about the place.

We recommend bringing another smaller, ideally collapsible rucksack to use when touring along with a rain cover for it. This eliminates the need to load and repack your carry-on bag. You may also use it to transport keepsakes acquired along the route.

9. Packing Cubes:

Packing cubes can save you a lot of space and help you organize your packing items category-wise. The packing cubes are great so that your products don’t get shuffled, and you can easily locate smaller items and keep them organized.

If you are an overpacker or want to stay organised during your long trip you can go for packing cubes. They come in varying sizes. Using at least four for shoes, clothes, personal care and hygiene products will be recommended.

10. Personal Care Products:

If you are travelling to any new place , the environment will definitely affect your skin and wellbeing in general. Hence, carrying travel size cleansing and moisturising items and dry shampoo is quite necessary. Also, taking personal care products that may help you with cold, heat or other aspects of the climate of your destination is always advised. The personal care products also include your regular medicines, vitamins and other supplements.

11. Zip Ties:

Take a pack of zip ties with you for your bag. If you are travelling solo or going to someplace with a high theft number of zip ties, come in really handy. Your luggage will be safe the entire tour. If you are travelling to anywhere with high crime you might want to secure your things. The ultra heavy-duty ties are the strongest in the industry and can support up to 250 lbs.

12. Emergency Medicines:

Do you hate the feeling of waking up nauseated or having a bad stomach during travel? Well, who doesn’t? But it’s always safe to carry some essential and basic medicines for allergies, stomach issues, nausea, antibiotics and antibacterial medicines. Carry a small pouch to take with you. Double check on your medicines if you have any medical condition and carry your regular medicines to enjoy a hassle-free trip.

13. Travel Umbrella/ Raincoat

A travel umbrella or raincoat is an essential item to pack for a trip because weather can change at any time during your trip. Opt for a compact, lightweight umbrella or raincoat that can keep you dry and comfortable while going out to explore.

It can also be useful if you are hiking a waterfall or tropical places and when you need to travel between locations, as you don’t want to get wet and risk catching a cold or other illness.

Additionally, some destinations may have rainy seasons, and having a raincoat or umbrella on hand can make a significant difference in your enjoyment of the trip. So, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the weather when you’re travelling.

14. Portable Wifi Device

A portable wifi Device can help you cut down your budget as you can stay in the most remote location, and you don’t have to pay for wifi to your hotel. A portable wifi Device works just as a route and it routes the internet to your mobile and other devices.

Portable wifi Devices also come in handy for solo travellers and digital nomads who want to work alongside travelling. It allows you to stay connected on the go. Also, staying connected with a portable wifi device is safer rather than connecting to a large-scale public network.

15. Insect repellent

When travelling to tropical countries during the summer, bringing a small stick of insect repellent can save you from a lot of discomfort. If you are travelling to a hot and humid destination, you are likely to encounter mosquitoes, making insect repellent an essential item to pack. This is especially important if you are planning outdoor activities such as camping or trekking.

Having insect repellent on hand will not only protect you from pesky mosquito bites, but also from diseases that can be transmitted by insects. Therefore, it’s recommended to pack a small stick of insect repellent wherever you go to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

16. Travel Itineraries or Maps:

If you are going to any off-beat place where you might face internet issues and network problems, it is advisable to carry maps or to download the area’s maps on your phone beforehand. Carrying an efficient itinerary is also important especially if you are a solo traveler. Also, for convenience, you can download printable travel itineraries to get the most out of your holidays.

Clothing Essentials for Travelling

For your trips you should have all clothing essentials you need are useful basics and some of the classy dresses as well as few activity related clothing. If you talk about clothin essentials for travelling you will need undergarments, pants or shorts, rain jacket, comfy pjs, one swimsuit, 1 dress, jackets and layers as required. This goes without saying, that pack fresh and clean pairs of undergarments for travelling.

Always carry extra pairs so you can avoid any unwanted situation.  In case of base layers, choose options that are versatile and can be dressed up or dressed down. Also, carry swimsuit if you are visiting beaches, waterfalls or staying in a luxury hotel or resort where you are planning to hang out by the pool.

Travel Essentials for Outdoor Activities

1. flashlight: .

For any outdoor activities flashlights are essential as you might spend the night without electric supply. If you are going trekking, or hiking overnight carrying a powerful flashlight is a must. Depending on the duration of your trip you can either carry a small flashlight or a rechargeable ones with portable powerbox.

2. Small Backpack Or Fannypack:

Caring a fannypack always keeps your hands free and you can keep all the most-required items on the fannypack. And, if you are hiking or going on activities outdoor in other countries, carrying your necessary documents become easy with a fannypack. The small backpack or fanny pack is an all-in-one solution to keep your items in-hand.

3. Hiking Suit:

If you are going on a professional hike, wearing a hiking suit or carrying one helps you in keeping you warm when it’s cold, hot or windy outside. It also prevents you from getting cuts, and it’s easy to put on and carry with the functional design for the outdoors. Hence, if you are leaving for a multiple-day hike you might want to carry a functional hiking suit.

4. Toolkit:

An essential toolkit is invaluable for a multi-day trip, offering optimal support and convenience. By having your tent and gears neatly organized in one place, you can save time and effort. Particularly for camping trips, an assorted toolkit can prove indispensable for assembling and repairing equipment as needed.

5. First-aid Kit:

It’s quite easy to get a nick or cut while travelling outdoors. If you are travelling with kids, it’s always advised to carry first-aid kits. Carry bandaids, medicines for common cold, diarreha, vomiting, water clearing pills, as well as anti-bacterial ointments. It’s important to carry all your medicines as well as emergency medicines to stay prepared and stay safe during travel.

6. Cooler for Carrying Drinks/Foods:

If it’s a one-day trip or one-night trip you can get a cooler box to keep you foods unperished, and use the box for ice supply and keep water cool in hot areas. A cooler box helps in food storage, preservation of medicines and keep your foods hygienic. It’s a must-carry item for outdoors providing hydration and making packing necessary items easier.

Specific Travel Essentials to Pack for Women

1. multi-pouch bag:.

For keeping all your accessories and makeup and skincare organised a multi-pouch bag comes pretty handy. You can fit in all your day-to-day products in this bag and can keep track of where they are. And, because they are compact and lightweight you can save a lot of space with them. Also, you can keep your documents in a multi-pouch bag to keep them safe during the travel.

2. Menstrual Cup or Pads:

Even if you are not travelling during your time of the month, keep a menstrual cup or pads  in hand in case of any untimely visit. Also, if you are travelling outdoors, carrying a menstrual cup will be more helpful than pads and you won’t have any disposal problems. Be comfortable and prepared while travelling.

3. Multiple Pair of Socks and Shorts:

Carrying multiple players to stay clean during a long trip is necessary. While you are  travelling, cleaning up or doing laundry can be tenacious. Always carry extra pairs of socks and shorts.

4. Accessories:

After packing your clothing, add in your accessories including sunglasses, earring, and other jewelleries as well as shoes. For jewelleries using items that work with most of your outfits can be space-saving. Also, donot carry very expensive jewelries while travelling.

5. Personal Safety Items:

Though it is advisable to carry personal safety items for everybody, it is specially emphasized for women to stay safe. Consider carrying easy-to-carry safety items like glasscaps, portable door alarm, pepper spray and a lock to keep yourself safe and have a happy trip throughout.

Always, remember to cusomize your packing even if you are a frequent traveller to matc the specific requirements and restrictions for your destination. Travelling may be a life-changing event that produces memories that last a lifetime.

But first, you must pack. And packing correctly may make all the difference in terms of stress reduction and long-term cost savings. While everyone has a different opinion of what goods are necessary for travel, the 6 suggestions above are what we have found to be the most beneficial throughout my personal excursions.

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The Essential Items Every Traveler Should Pack For a Trip

Everybody dreads packing, but these make it easier.

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

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

OSTRICH PILLOW GO Travel Pillow for Airplane Neck Support

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

Away The Bigger Carry-On

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

BIS The Packing Cubes

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

ANTHROPOLOGIE Pippa Travel Wallet

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

Lano Face Base Aussie Flyer Mask

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

this works in transit pollution shield

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

Slip Silk Sleepmask

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

Primera Clean Berry Lip Mask

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

DEET-Free Repellent Golden Hour

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

iTecFree Wireless Earbuds Stereo Bluetooth Headphones with Charging Case

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

Luxtude 5000mAh Ultra Slim Portable Phone Charger

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

RAMPOW Micro USB Cable Android

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

White + Warren Travel Cashmere Wrap

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

Amazon Kindle

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

State Bags Crosby Fanny Pack

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

Sky Roam Global WiFi

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

que Factory que Collapsible Water Bottle

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

POOL BLUE SHAVE SET

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

First Aid Travel Kit

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

Softwear Women’s Hoodie Forest

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

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

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A list of travel essentials to make for easy travelling

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks Travel Essentials List

Travel without careful planning is like sailing without a compass - you may end up somewhere interesting, but it's more likely that you'll just get lost. That's why having a good travel essentials list is so important. It helps you to make sure that you've got everything you need for your trip, and that you're not forgetting anything important.

Of course, what counts as a travel essential will vary depending on where you're going and what you'll be doing. A beach vacation will require different things than a business trip, for instance. But there are some items that are generally useful no matter where you're going or what you'll be doing. In this article, we explore travel essentials that we recommend everyone to consider packing.

Tips to select the right travel essentials for you

• Pack essentials based on where you’re travelling: what weather is to be expected, what kind of cultural norms might need to followed and any country-specific guidelines on luggage.
• How long you’re travelling for: the longer your vacation or travel time, the more important it is to prioritize the critical essentials such as medicine, global sim cards etc.
• Budgeting: when budgeting for your vacation, include the cost of purchasing any essentials you may need into it so you don’t spend exorbitant amounts.
• Buy nice or buy twice: the last thing you want to do is constantly replace your essentials because you skimped on the first purchase. Find good and sturdy options within your budget
• Be prepared for unforeseen conditions: in unknown countries, it is always better to be prepared than to scramble around at the nth moment.
• Optimize for comfort: at the end of the day, you’re the one who’ll be using the various products. Ensure they are as per your liking to have a pleasant experience.
• Buy your essentials in advance: have a checklist in place when you’re planning your trip and ensure you purchase them well ahead of time to avoid last-minute anxiety and price hikes.

In-flight Essentials

Travelling can be tough on the back - literally. Lugging around a suitcase or heavy duffel bag can lead to strain and pain. That's why we like to be savvy travelers who opt for a backpack. Backpacks are designed to evenly distribute weight across the body, making them more comfortable to carry over long distances. And, when packed correctly, they can actually be lighter than traditional luggage.

• Lightweight carry-on in which all your in-flight essentials can be organized to keep things easily accessible.
• They're also great for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
• Store your laptop and any other electronic devices/valuables you wouldn’t want to leave in your check-in luggage.
• Weight: The lighter, the better.
• Comfort: The shoulder straps, padding, and carry handles combine to offer varying degrees of comfort.
• Usability: Clever design and placement of features determines the ease of use.
• Durability: Largely depends on the material the bag is made with. Use bags for what they’re made for and they’ll last longer.
• Great organization
• Laptop slot
• Comfortable
• Can be tough to carry by the handle

2 Travel/neck pillow

For a relaxing and comfortable flight journey or a snooze on your roadtrips, a neck pillow is ideal. While sleeping on a plane or train is usually difficult (and uncomfortable), a travel pillow can be a good accessory for getting a bit of shut-eye, especially during long and exhausting travel periods. Since a travel pillow can help you get that much-needed rest, finding the right one matters.

• Comfortable sleep during long hours of travel.
• Provide neck support to avoid strain.
• Inflatable and non-inflatable: inflatable is easier to pack.
• Portability.
• Sleeping position: influences the kind of neck support you need while sleeping.
• Versatility
• No travel bag

If you’re not a fan of having earphones or headphones on to block out the noise, we recommend using earplugs when traveling. Not only can they help you get some much-needed rest on long flights or car rides but also protect your ears from the harmful effects of high altitudes and changes in air pressure. They are a simple and effective way to make travel more comfortable and enjoyable. So be sure to pack a pair before your next trip!

• Block out external noise.
• Protect ears from changes in air pressure.
• Size and fit.
• Effectiveness of blocking out noise.
• Re-usability.
• Frequency of use.
• Noise reduction could be better

4 Sleep mask

It can be hard to fall asleep easily when on the move or in unfamiliar places. The increased exposure to light in certain places can also throw you off your regular sleep cycle. To avoid unpleasant flight experiences during long travels or to give yourself the best chance of getting some shut-eye, we recommend having a sleep mask handy.

• Shut out the light and fall asleep.
• Respite from overexposure to light.
• Shape, size and fit.
• Personal preference.
• Material: smoothness and durability.
• Contoured to fit the face
• Easily washable
• Ear plugs are included
• Can be stiff for the first few uses

5 Compression socks

When we travel, we make sure to pack a pair of compression socks. These socks are designed to support your feet and ankles, and they can help to prevent pain and swelling. They're especially important when sitting for long periods of time, such as on a plane or in a car. In addition, compression socks can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

• Help to improve blood flow in your legs.
• Reduce fluid retention in your legs.
• Material: needs to be stretchable and strong.
• Appropriate pressure rating: 15-20 mmHg.
• Moisture resistant
• Offers great support
• Durable and high quality
• Can only be washed by hand

Tech Essentials

6 travel adapter.

Take it from our experience, the last thing you want is to not be able to plug in your devices and recharge them because of the incompatibility of your stock adapter with the place you’re in. This is where an international travel adapter is a life saver.

• Compatibility with your appliances’ pin types.
• Safety: earthed adapters to prevent damage from power surges.
• Works in more than 150 countries
• 3 USB-A ports and a USB-C port
• Earthed and protects against shocks
• Can be hard to procure due to high demand

7 Global SIM card

As avid travellers ourselves, we can tell you that a global sim card is an essential item for any trip. It gives you the ability to stay connected with friends and family back home. Whether you're posting pictures to social media or just sending a quick text, it's nice to be able to stay in touch. If you lose your phone or have it stolen, you can use your card to call for help. So if you're planning a trip, be sure to pick up a global sim card before you go.

• Phone calls.
• Internet Data.
• Keep track of your expenses: with most cards, you can view your balance and transaction history online, which makes it easy to stay on budget
• Place of travel.
• Plans/packages required as per your use.
• Network coverage/reliability.
• Seamless data connectivity
• Works in over 190 countries and regions
• Good customer support

8 Portable WiFi

When we travel, we want to be able to stay connected with our loved ones and have access to all of the information we need at our fingertips. That's why portable wifi is such a lifesaver. Portable wifi gives you a personal, secure connection that you can take with you wherever you go. Whether you're exploring a new city or just trying to stay connected while on the road, portable wifi is the perfect solution. And because it's so affordable, there's no reason not to take advantage of this lifesaving technology. So if you're looking for a way to stay connected while you travel, be sure to consider portable wifi. It might just be the best decision you ever make.

• 5Ghz support.
• Battery life.
• Easy to set up.
• Your individual/group data requirements.
• Lightweight, compact design
• Multiple devices can be connected
• Comparatively lower battery life

9 Power strip

One of the most annoying things about travelling is trying to find a place to charge your electronics. Whether you're trying to find an available outlet at the airport or trying to squeeze your way into a crowded coffee shop, it can be a challenge to keep your devices powered up. That's why we always travel with a power strip. It's one less thing to worry about, and it means you'll always have a place to charge your phone, tablet, or laptop. So next time you're packing for a trip, make sure to throw a power strip into your bag. It might just come in handy.

• Plug in and charge multiple devices at once.
• Access hard to reach sockets.
• Output voltage: needs to be in line with the requirement of standard devices.
• Number of sockets required.
• Length of the cord.
• Required pin type.
• Safety: presence of an inbuilt and/or earthing.
• 5-foot power cord
• 2 surge-protected AC outlets and 4 smart USB ports
• Body not of the highest quality

10 Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Another essential to keep handy for times when you wanna tune out and escape the surrounding noise. It can be difficult to constantly be in a noisy environment when you're trying to fall asleep or trying to relax. To disconnect or to keep yourself entertained, it is best to have your trusted noise-canceling headphones with you

• In-flight/on-the-road entertainment.
• Durability.
• Sound quality
• Brilliant noise-cancelling

11 Power Bank

A power bank is one of the most important travel accessories you can pack. Whether your phone is your camera, your map, your boarding pass or your lifeline to friends and family, you need to know it will be there when you need it. A power bank gives you the peace of mind of always having a backup charge for your devices, whether you're stuck on a long layover or exploring a new city. We recommend packing a power bank whenever you travel, so you can stay connected and make the most of your trip.

• Number of ports.
• Size and weight.
• Charging speed.
• Battery life of the power bank.
• Battery life
• Fast charging
• Comparatively heavier and clunky

Travel Organizers

12 toiletries kit.

We cannot stress the importance of a toiletries kit enough. It makes your life on the move a lot easier and keeps your grooming essentials such as toothpastes, shampoos, and deodorants within reach. What’s more important, it keeps your toiletries organized so you don’t have to dig through your luggage to keep yourself clean!

• Storage of toiletry essentials.
• Easy accessibility of essentials to freshen up.
• Size of your luggage/backpack.
• The size of the kit depends on the number of items you carry.
• Number of compartments: depends on your organization preferences.
• Durability and ease of cleaning.
• Suitable for both short and long trips
• Has a hook and can be hanged from a towel rack
• Its translucence allows for smooth security checks
• The hook could be slightly bigger

Luggage is one of the most essential items you will need for travel, whether you are taking a short trip or embarking on a long journey. There are many different types of luggage to choose from, but we recommend investing in a quality piece that will last for years. A good piece of luggage should be sturdy and well-made, with plenty of compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.

• Store all your clothes, footwear, and other items.
• Protect valuables.
• Duration of trip.
• Number of things you will carry.
• Airline restrictions on weight.
• Compactness and portability.
• Compact and lightweight
• The design may fade with use

14 Laundry Bags

We always recommend laundry bags as a travel essential, and for good reason! Not only do they make it easy to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes, but they also help to protect your clothes from wrinkles and damage. Plus, if you're traveling with a group, laundry bags can help to keep everyone's belongings organized. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a long vacation, be sure to pack a few laundry bags in your suitcase. Trust us, you'll be glad you did!

• Segregate clean and dirty clothes.
• Wash sensitive clothes to avoid damage.
• Size: based on the number of travellers.
• Style: backpack, cross-body, or handle.
• Closure: types of closures and your personal preference.
• Easy to fold
• Slightly expensive
• Can break if overloaded

15 Packing Cubes

If you're sick of your clothes getting all wrinkled and crammed in your suitcase, then you need to start using packing cubes. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that come in a variety of sizes. They make it easier to find things when you're on the go. If you're planning a trip, packing cubes are a must to keep your belongings organized and sorted. Trust us, they'll make your life a lot easier!

• Organize your clothes, toiletries, and other items.
• Save space in your luggage.
• Flexibility.
• Compactness.
• Lightweight
• Good organization
• Could be more spacious

16 Cable Organizer

We can attest to the importance of having a good cable organizer. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to untangle a nest of cords and chargers when you're in a hurry to catch your flight. A good cable organizer will keep all of your cords neatly organized and readily accessible. It's also a good idea to choose an organizer with multiple compartments, so you can easily keep track of which cord goes with which device.

17 In-flight pouch

No more rummaging through your bag for a set of headphones or a book; everything you need is right at your fingertips. Additionally, an in flight pouch ensures that you have easy access to everything you need during the flight. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to be as comfortable as possible when they're stuck in a cramped seat for hours on end? So if you're looking for ways to up your travel game, an in-flight pouch is a great place to start.

• Number of compartments/organization.
• Ample pockets
• TSA approved
• The material could be more sturdy

18 Travel Wallet

As anyone who has ever gone on a trip knows, there are a lot of things to keep track of - plane tickets, hotel reservations, rental car information, and so on. And if you're carrying all of this around in your purse or pockets, it can be a real pain. That's why we recommend a travel wallet as a travel essential. A travel wallet is designed to hold all of your important travel documents in one place, so you can easily find what you need when you need it. It's also much more secure than carrying everything loose in your bag since it has zippered compartments and may even have a strap that goes around your neck or wrist.

• Safety: RFID protection to prevent unwanted trouble with your cards.
• Number of documents/cards you’re carrying.
• RFID protection

19 Travel Pill Organizer

When you're packing for a trip, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you have all your medications. That's where travel pill organizers come in. Not only do they help to keep your pills sorted and easy to find, but they also prevent them from spilling or getting lost in your bag. Whether you're taking prescription drugs or over-the-counter medication, a travel pill organizer is a convenient way to keep everything organized and within reach.

• Keep your medication organized and secure.
• Easy access to medication.
• Amount of medication to be carried.
• Moisture-proof
• Can be hard to open at times

Accessories for travel with children

• Swaddle blankets
• Portable strollers
• Miniature food containers
• Sleep pillow
• Toddler basket/bed
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Change of clothes in case of accidents/spillage
• Travel games such as Pocket Pictionary, Monopoly Deal, Uno, Ludo, Scrabble, etc.

Sathvik Srinath

Sathvik's love for travel is only matched by his love for football. Born and brought up in the city of Bengaluru, he's been lucky enough to be in a city that's become a melting pot of culture over time. He dreams of living in Norway one day and can't wait to see the world!

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

The travel essentials we’re most excited for in 2024

Whether your next trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas, here’s the gear—from featherlight binocs to sustainable bags—you should pack.

What do all successful travelers have in common? Often, it’s an arsenal of great gear. After all, what you pack can make a big difference when exploring the best of the world . For our annual Gear of the Year list, National Geographic travel editors searched far and wide for the coolest products to pack. We also asked experts—from pro cyclists to adventure photographers—what they look for in everything from bike racks to binoculars. Here’s what we’re most excited to take with us in 2024.

Our picks for the best travel essentials

Top travel essentials for your next trip, durable roller bag for tight spaces: cotopaxi allpa.

Award-winning travel journalist Tim Neville has journeyed on yaks, buses, and “countless heaving boats” and says that when it comes to packs, “a water-resistant exterior, beefy zippers, and soft, tough sides are non-negotiable.”  

The newest Cotopaxi Allpa has two sturdy wheels made to handle cobblestone streets, stairs, and other rough surfaces. Like earlier versions of the bag, it’s constructed of 100 percent recycled pre-consumer waste (extra materials from the manufacturing process) and features a split-case design and mesh compartments for intuitive organization.

Buy it now:   REI, from $350,   38L   (carry-on compatible) and   65L | Amazon, $349.99

100 percent recycled backpacks: Patagonia Black Hole Collection

Patagonia’s popular duffel bag collection is now completely made from post-consumer recycled (used materials diverted from landfills) polyester ripstop that resists tearing. The Fair Trade Certified pieces still come with a weather-resistant TPU-film laminate coating, rendering them virtually indestructible. We like the addition of a new interior pocket for stashing smaller valuables, such as cords and keys. For even more convenience, look for a duffel with wheels rolling out in August. Available in multiple styles and sizes.

Shop the collection now:   Patagonia, $35-$419

GPS tracker/virtual fence dog collar: Halo Collar 3

Halo’s newest GPS tracking collar not only keeps tabs on dogs with a propensity to escape or wander, it also lets you set a virtual fence to keep them confined to a geographic area, such as a campsite. It takes time for pups to acclimate to the collar’s alerts, which vary from beeps to vibrations—but the Halo app comes loaded with training tips. Available in small and medium/large for dogs 20 pounds and up.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $699, plus a subscription starting at $5.99/month

Fast-drying wool base layer: Ibex Woolies Pro Tech

Ibex’s new collection (tops, bottoms, boxer briefs) is constructed from Nuyarn, purportedly the world’s first performance wool. It’s made from non-twisted fibers, enabling the wool to retain more of its natural properties, such as body temperature regulation. The company claims that this lets the fabric dry five times faster than conventional 100 percent, ring-spun merino wool. It also weighs 35 percent less and offers 35 percent more stretch.

Buy it now:   Ibex (Men’s), $115   |   Ibex (Women’s), $115

Recyclable rain jacket: Patagonia Boulder Fork

Patagonia has plenty of outerwear made from recycled material. This rain jacket, however, is the first from the 50-year-old company that you can recycle. We like the adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood (great for keeping extra dry) and the three zippered chest pockets, which give you plenty of places to stash your things. The sleek, not-too-boxy silhouette is an added bonus.

Buy it now:   Patagonia (Men's) $229   |   Patagonia (Women's), $229

Waterproof, sustainable hiking boots: Oboz Cottonwood

This new boot, ideal for day hikes on uneven, wet terrain, is the Montana-based company ’s most sustainable yet. Both the low- and mid-profile designs incorporate at least 20 percent recycled, responsibly sourced materials by weight. Even better, Oboz’s “B-DRY” lining is designed to maximize waterproofing and breathability—top qualities to look for in hiking boots, especially for trekking through tropical regions or cruising around on Zodiacs.

Buy it now:   Zappos   (Men’s), $155   |   Zappos   (Women’s), $155

Featherlight binoculars: Swarovski Optik CL Curio

Slightly larger than a deck of cards and weighing just 8.9 ounces, Swarovski’s Optik CL Curio binoculars are the lightest, most compact binoculars we’ve found—exactly what you want in the field. With a sleek, seamless bridge by industrial designer Marc Newson , they’re also pretty stylish. With 7x magnification, a 21mm effective objective lens diameter, 7.7° field of view, and 90 percent light transmission, you’ll be able to discern a border collie from a coyote at 100 yards away and count the cracks in the craters of the moon at night.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $899

Budget-friendly, feature-loaded binoculars: Nocs Field Issue

Birdwatchers on a budget will appreciate Nocs’ new Field Issue, which marries the high-quality optics of the Pro Issue with the size and durability of the Standard Issue . It’s ideal for an off-road adventure when you want a super-wide, crisp view in a variety of lighting conditions. Like all the company’s binoculars, this mid-size (it weighs 16.7 ounces) pair is waterproof and fog-proof. But unlike other models, it features the brand’s finest central focusing. While it comes with a cleaning cloth and strap, consider upgrading to a harness to prevent it from awkwardly swinging around your neck.

Buy it now:   Nocs Provisions, $175

Carry-on that converts into a table: PROPS  

This hard-side carry-on has fold-out legs that turn the suitcase into a footrest or a table for your laptop during layovers or travel delays. It’s great for small hotel rooms without luggage racks. The built-in compression packing system and space-saving clamshell opening holds a surprising amount for a 22-inch bag. Look for a 26-inch model in October 2024.

Buy it now:   Magellan’s, $329

Super grippy water sandals: Teva Hydratrek

Inspired by tree frogs, Teva’s latest sandal is built so that a maximum amount of surface area on the outsole stays in contact with the ground. Extra texturing on the top sole helps wet feet stay put, while the quick-dry, traceable recycled webbing helps with durability. An added bonus for light packers: These are water sandals you can also hike in.

Buy it now:   Zappos   (Men’s), $85   |   Zappos   (Women’s), $85

Robust, fast charger: Anker Prime Power Bank 250W

At 27,650 mAh, Anker’s newest model is packed with power. “At least 20,000 mAh is the sweet spot because it allows me to charge my phone four to five times and my laptop once or twice,” says Barry Hoffner, founder of the education nonprofit Caravan to Class , who relied on a power bank while taking public buses across more than 170 countries.  

This new model takes 28 minutes to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50 percent—a big improvement from last year’s 140W model, which took 40. Yet, at 99.54 watt hours, it still falls under TSA’s 100-watt-hour limit for carry-on packing. Pairing and Bluetooth connectivity via the Anker app enables you to track it if you lose it.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $179.99

Portable solar panel: BigBlue SolarPowa 30 ETFE Camping Solar Panel Charger

BigBlue’s latest travel-friendly solar panel is now made with an ETFE layer, a fluorine-based plastic that can withstand high temperatures. It also resists water, dust, corrosion, and stains. This model reportedly lasts twice as long as a traditional panel and folds to the size of a 14-inch laptop—which not only saves space, but also exposes less surface area to damaging elements.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $79.99

Endlessly customizable backpack: Osprey Archeon

Osprey’s new Archeon set lets you customize your pack via quick-release straps—ideal for when you’re trekking and don’t want to take your full 60L kit on shorter day hikes. Start with the foundational day pack and add accordingly. The chest rig, which straps over your shoulders like a BabyBjorn, maximizes versatility. You can wear it backward, forward, and around your waist like a fanny pack—just attach the day pack’s removable hip belt. Each piece sold separately.

Shop   the collection now:   Osprey, $50-$300

Padded storage cube: Away, The Protective Packing Cube (6L)

Part of Away’s outdoor-centric For All Routes (F.A.R.) collection, the sturdy 6L packing cube has extra padding and six customizable dividers for storing fragile items, like larger electronics or a small pair of binoculars. A removable shoulder strap lets you wear the cube as a crossbody bag when you need to transport just a few things from your suitcase. Plus, it’s made of recycled materials and ships in compostable packaging.

Buy it now:   Away, $72

Heavy-duty universal bike rack: Thule Epos

A good bike rack should have turn and brake signals, according to retired professional cyclist George Hincapie .  

Thule’s newest model includes both signals, plus telescopic arms with pivoting cradles that let you attach any type of bike, even an e-bike weighing up to 60 pounds. It works on any car; in some cases with an easy-to-install hitch. We especially appreciate that it folds up and wheels away for storage. (It weighs just 38 pounds.)

Buy it now:   REI, $999.95   |   Amazon, $999.95

Dog harness/rescue sling: Fido Pro Panza

Hiking in remote areas with your dog can be risky, especially since search and rescue often isn’t equipped for pups. Vets recommend it’s best to be prepared and to think in advance how you can get your dog out of a difficult situation. It’s also a great idea to pack a rescue harness. We like this newly patented harness because it converts into a sling that you can wrap around your dog without too much maneuvering. Included custom pads can save your shoulders over longer distances too. Fits most breeds 35-120 pounds.

Buy it now:   Backcountry, $139

Dog first aid travel kits: Wolf Republic First Aid Kit & Adventure Dog Medical Kit

Having a dog-specific first aid kit can be especially handy while traveling, especially if you're doing adventurous or sporty activities. We love Wolf Republic’s loaded kit for longer trips and Adventure Ready’s compact one for short day hikes. Both come stocked with vet-approved must-haves including triple antibiotic spray, self-adhesive bandages, saline wash, and tweezers.  

Buy it now:   Wolf Republic First Aid Kit, $56

Buy it now:   Adventure Dog Medical Kit,   Amazon, $22.98 for a pack of 2

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• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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Travel Inspo, Adventure Travel & Travel Photography

Africa , Asia , Central America , Essentials , Europe , North America , Oceania , South America · September 8, 2022

17 Long Flight Essentials That Every Traveler Needs in their Carry On

Planning a trip and are dreading the long flight? These 17 flight essentials are sure to make your time in the sky a bit more tolerable.

Flying is not fun. There I said it. Even after the hundred of flights we’ve taken we aways dread it. So overs the years I have managed to put together the perfect flight essentials kit. You will always find these items in my carry on.

This guide we will cover all the top travel essentials you need for a long haul flight. From travel pillows to ear plugs to cozy socks and more.

After reading this post you will know exactly which products to bring for your upcoming flight.

This post is all about the 17 long flight essentials that every traveler needs in their carry on.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Flight Essentials

These are some of the best long flight comfort items that are an absolute essential for every traveler.

1. Travel Pillow

Over the years I’ve purchased several different travel pillows but never actually found the one that I couldn’t seem to leave home without, until I found this one! This travel pillow actually does what a typical travel pillow can not and that is comfortably supporting your head and neck so you don’t wake up with neck strain. It’s the only travel pillow I recommend.

2. Travel Blanket

I’m noticing over the years that less and less airlines are supplying blankets to its customers. When it comes to long flights a blanket is a much needed comfort item. So I recently started carrying my own because nothing is worse than trying to take a nap without a cozy blanket. This one fits perfect in my carry on bag.

3. Travel Foot Rest

Very few airplanes come with foot rests. It’s a luxury that you never thought you needed until you’ve tried it and realize how much more comfortable the flight is with it. Thankfully they sell travel foot rests that are compact and fit easily into your carry on.

4. Sleep Mask

Not all flights are red eyes and not everyone will pull their screens down, so and an eye mask is a must have for long haul flights. You will be very thankful you can blackout your surroundings when you need it.

5. EarPlugs

Nothing is worst than a super loud flight. Especially when you are trying to read your kindle, get some work done or trying to take a snooze. That is why I always carry a couple earplugs for any flight we take, it’s a small investment but one of the most important items to bring on a flight.

6. Cozy Socks

One of my favorite airplane comfort hacks is wearing cozy socks. Airplanes tend to run cold and cold feet suck. These socks will keep your feet warm and are so comfortable that for a minute you’ll forget you’re on a plane. Common cozy socks are the best!

7. Hand Sanitizer

For obvious reasons I always carry a couple hand sanitizers. These ones are awesome because they’re refillable and are the perfect size to get through TSA.

8. Disinfecting Wipes

Even before COVID it was my ritual to always disinfect my seat, the hand rest and the much needed tray table. I mean there is no possible way that airport staff or flight attendants clean those parts after every flight. These wipes smell good, come in travel packs and can be used for so many other surfaces on your trip.

9. Toothbrush & Toothpaste

For long haul flights a toothbrush and toothpaste in your carry on is an absolute MUST. Instead of packing regular toothpaste pack toothpaste tablets they are much more travel friendly and you won’t have to worry about your TSA liquids limits.

10. Skin Care + Hand Lotion

Nothing dries your skin out quite like hours and hours of recycled air. Keeping up with your skincare routine will not only help hydrate your skin but will make you feel so refreshed. Hand lotion is also a plus, your skin will thank you for it.

11. Lip Balm

Never board a flight without lip balm. Again, your skin tends to get so dry in the sky and your lips are no exception. Aquaphor is one of my favorite hydrating lip moisturizer and never travel without it. Highly recommend this brand.

12. Noise Cancelling Headphones

I can’t believe I went flights and flights without headphones. Mathew always told me to buy some but never I thought I needed them. Ultimately I caved and have never looked back, I couldn’t imagine going on a flight without my headphones now. I recommend investing in a good pair of noise cancelling headphones. I especially love the Sony headphones because they are comfortable, easy to use and comes with an airplane adapter that connects to any tv monitor on board.

Kindles are very popular for good reason. Mathew loves his Kindle and has never been on a flight without it. It can store over 2,000 ebooks. Thus you have plenty of entertainment to occupy yourself for many many flights. You can purchase ebooks on amazon or through the Kindle Store.

I never travel without my laptop. I edit photos, videos and now will be working on the blog. Also, not all flights have free entertainment, for this reason I suggest uploading movies or tv shows to keep you occupied throughout your flight. Wifi is also available on a number of airlines if you need to catch up with work or emails.

15. External Battery Charger

Although USB ports are available in a number of airplanes not all airplanes have them. I have also learned that a lot of the time they don’t actually work, especially older planes. Don’t make the same mistake I did and run out of battery with 3 hours left in your flight. Not fun.

16. Water Bottle

Flight attendants are more than happy to fill your water bottles. It’s especially important to stay hydrated on long haul flights and asking for water in those tiny cups becomes annoying after about the third time and of course it’s super wasteful.

First of all never go on a flight without snacks. Airplane food is a little hard to eat and if you’re not vibing what they are passing out, snacks will save your life. Even if you are enjoying the plane food, having some comfort foods will make your flight even smoother. These are some of my go to snacks.

• Dried Fruit
• Crunchy Chickpeas
• Protein Bar

Bonus Flight Essentials

Here are some additional products you might want to add to your carry on.

1. Phone Holder

Nothing is worse than walking into a flight you know you”l be on for hours just to find out there are no monitors, meaning no entertainment. This phone holder will be a life saver in those situations because you’ll be able to enjoy some screen time without having to hold onto you phone. The flex phone holder is compatible with a phone or tablet. These are great too because you can use them not only on your flight but at the airport too.

2. Seat Cushion

Okay this is something I just recently purchased after our last trip because I was having a lot of tailbone pain and was very uncomfortable on our flights. This seat cushion works great for long sitting hours and adds instant comfort to any chair. Definitely tushy approved.

3. Toilet Seat Covers

Nothing is worst than finding yourself in a restroom with no toilet seat cover. When I found these flushable toilet seat covers on Amazon they were an instant buy. Use them on a flight or for any sketchy restroom that your tushy needs protection from.

4. Poo-Pourri 

Although we all try using the restroom before any flight, when it comes to long flights that could be a bit of a challenge . Nobody wants to do it but when nature calls you have no other choice. Carrying Poo-Pourri will help keep the smell down and your fellow travelers will thank you for it.

5. Hydrating Face Mist

Like I mentioned earlier, skin tends to get extremely dry during a flight. That’s why I love carrying a facial mist in my bag. This is a nice quick fix to keep your face fresh and hydrated. Honest is one of my favorites and comes in the perfect size for TSA liquid regulations.

Well that about covers it, those are the 17 long flight essentials that every traveler needs in their carry on. Happy Traveling!

OTHER POSTS YOU MAY LIKE:

• A Complete Travel Essentials Guide

TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here you can find all the travel site links that we personally use and recommend.

ACCOMMODATION:  We find the best deals with  BOOKING.COM. The more you book the better the perks like free breakfast with your stay, room upgrades and even higher discounted room rates.

CAR RENTALS:  We have always used  RentalCars.com  and find them to have the best deals, customer service and selection of locations.

FLIGHTS:  Our go too for booking flights has always been  SKYSCANNER . We always find the best prices on this site.

TOURS/EXCURSIONS:  GET YOUR GUIDE  and  VIATOR  are two very reputable sites with easy and hassle free bookings.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:  It’s so important to travel with insurance and for this we use  World Nomads  or Safety Wing .

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27 Must-Have Tent Camping Essentials Every Camper Should Have

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10 Travel Essentials You Never Knew You Needed

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

We often want to take a break from our stressful lives to start afresh. For that purpose, most travel to any country or city, whatever is possible. Still, during the process, we try our best to make our trip as easy and comfortable as possible; here are some travel essentials that will make your life tranquil while traveling and pleasant.

1. Hand Sanitizer Wipes

Most of the time, we get into situations while traveling that require us to wash our hands, like before or after eating street food, etc., but access to a place to wash our hands is not available. In those circumstances, it is recommended to have a stack of hand sanitizer wipes to maintain a hygienic environment.

2. Fold Up Wagons

While traveling in groups or with family, we tend to carry a significant amount of stuff, but carrying all those bags gets heavy and challenging and leaves you exhausted. All the suffering can be avoided with these foldable wagons. They are the best choice since they have wheels, you would not need to lift that heavy stuff, and it doesn’t take up much space.

3. Zip Lock Bags

Zip lock bags are not just meant to be kitchen essentials but are also very useful while traveling. Throughout your trip, you could face certain events where you would need to carry your leftovers or stuff like creams or perfumes that could leak; zip-lock bags can save the hassle and help prevent unnecessary mess. 

4. Carabiners

Carabiners are not just hiking necessities but are multifunctional. They can eventually help carry extra materials that cannot be carried inside the bag, such as sand-covered flip-flops or water bottles. It is also handy for emergencies, such as fixing your backpack. The possibilities are endless, and so are the uses.

5. Silicon Earplugs

At high altitudes, while travelling in airplanes or vehicles, we feel pressure inside our ears, or they buzz and become pretty intolerable. Silicon earplugs are a must-have when travelling to high altitudes. It is better to plug them in while the plane takes off and lands. 

6. Foldable Multicompartment Cosmetic Bag

While packing for the trip, we think almost everything is essential, and when we look back, it seems like we have packed the whole vanity in our bag, which is overloaded, of course, but if you have a foldable hanging bag as an essential, then you are sorted out. This multilayered bag can carry all your cosmetics and skincare or toiletries. The bag is foldable, so it also doesn’t overload your bag.

7. A Digital Luggage Scale

One of the foremost things to own while travelling. During the trip, most of us wanted to buy things for our friends and family and, in doing so, had double the amount of stuff we had brought during our journey. To avoid any inconveniences at the airport, it is always handy to weigh your language beforehand, and this digital scale serves the proper purpose.

8. A Portable Door Lock

We have often heard about all the horrible incidents people have suffered while on vacations far from home, so to evade such calamities, it is better to ensure safety first rather than risk it. A portable door look is a small, handy, easy-to-carry, powerful tool that is easy to install without tools, and you won’t need any other person’s help installing it.

9. Perfume Atomizer

It’s a poor decision to carry all those bottles of your favorite fragrances, which will likely leak, break, and occupy a lot of space. Still, if you want to take some of them, it is ideal to have palm-sized perfume atomizers in this scenario. These are small, less spacious, refillable, and cheap; you can take your favorite scent anywhere. 

10. Anti-Pickpocketing Clips

No one wants their stress-relieving vacation to become stressful when they know something valuable has gone missing from their luggage. To ensure your valuables are safe while not attending, having pickpocketing clips is a satisfactory solution to keep the two zippers locked and protect the valuable belongings.

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Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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10 Things You Should Never Wear on a Plane — and What We're Replacing Them With From $6

Shop comfy sneakers, cozy layers, and more essential items to best prepare you for your next flight.

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Packing for a trip is stressful enough, but choosing the right outfit to wear on the plane is a land mine for potential mistakes that can throw your flight into flux. No matter if you’re dressing for comfort or style , there are quite a few no-no’s of air travel that should be avoided in order to ensure a smooth trip — but don’t worry, we’re here to help.

No matter how long your flight is or where you’re headed, we’ve outlined the 10 most common fashion mistakes that travelers make and the easy swaps to try along the way. From trading in open-toed shoes for a more sensible option to always having a cozy layer on hand , here’s how to ace your next flight with Amazon essentials starting at just $6.

Don't Wear: Open-toe Shoes

Wear this instead: comfy walking sneakers.

Leaving your toes exposed during a flight is not ideal. After all, sandals lack support and warmth, plus it’s unlikely that the floor of the plane has been cleaned in a while. These supportive Puma sneakers are an excellent alternative because not only will they get plenty of wear on vacation, but they also keep your feet insulated and protected. Plus, they’re on sale for 30 percent off at Amazon right now.

Don't Wear: Pajamas

Wear this instead: a versatile loungewear set.

You may be tempted to wear pajamas to maximize comfort, but when you’re traveling you want to make the most of your wardrobe — and anything you wear on a plane, you shouldn’t also wear into your clean sheets. A cozy alternative is this stylish two-piece set that can be styled in multiple ways throughout your trip, all while keeping you as comfy on your next long-haul flight. The half-zip sweatshirt is a great layer to easily take on and off during your travels, while the drawstring pants are the picture of sleek loungewear. Not to mention, it’s available in 21 gorgeous colors, like hot pink and green .

Don’t Wear: Your Engagement Ring

Wear this instead: an affordable alternative.

From theft to loss, there are too many things that can go wrong when wearing your engagement or wedding ring while traveling. With that in mind, it’s worth picking up a simple band that won’t draw attention to your jewelry, like this basic tungsten ring that’s only $17. The material is scratch-resistant, hypoallergenic, and comfy to wear, while coming in a wide range of sizes to fit all travelers.

Don’t Wear: Fragrance Deodorant

Wear this instead: unscented deodorant.

When you’re spending an extended amount of time in an enclosed space such as an airplane, there’s an unspoken rule to avoid strong scents such as perfume or deodorant to keep you (and other people on your flight that may be sensitive to smells) comfortable. This long-lasting, natural deodorant from Native offers an impressive 72 hours of odor control, plus it’s aluminum- and baking soda-free. You can still feel as fresh as the moment you left your house once you de-plane, just without the overwhelming traditional deodorant scent.

Don’t Wear: an Open-top Purse

Wear this instead: a zippered bag.

The chaos of boarding the plane and getting settled leaves far too many opportunities for your purse to spill over, so it’s not advisable to travel with an open-top tote that can’t safely be stowed under your seat. Instead, try investing in a zippered, anti-theft purse that will serve you well throughout the duration of your travels, all while keeping your belongings safe and secure from takeoff to landing. This shopper-loved option from Travelon is fitted with several reliable zippered pockets alongside an RFID-blocking pocket, providing peace of mind in the form of a wearable and sleek bag. The adjustable crossbody strap and convenient magentic snap flap are just icing on the cake.

Don’t Wear: Ankle Socks

Wear this instead: compression socks.

Inflammation and swelling are incredibly common during air travel, and if you often find yourself struggling with discomfort, you’ll benefit from swapping traditional ankle socks for a pair of these best-selling compression socks . Made from a high-quality spandex blend, these socks are lightweight and breathable, promoting healthy circulation in your legs for lessened fatigue and swelling during your trip. In fact, flight attendants have even called them “perfect” for air travel. 

Don’t Wear: Stiff Denim or Trousers

Wear this instead: slacks with an elastic waistband.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best on a flight. However, you’ll never regret prioritizing your comfort during longer trips, and these elastic waistband trousers are the perfect alternative to traditional denim. Still effortlessly stylish without digging into your skin, these flowy, cropped pants feature deep pockets, a trendy crop, and they’re made from 100 percent cotton. Did we mention they’re just $30 at Amazon? 

Don’t Wear: Claw Clips

Wear this instead: a soft scrunchie.

Ever tried getting comfortable against a headrest while wearing a claw clip? Well, if you haven’t yet, we certainly don’t recommend starting now. Claw clips may be stylish, but they’re not the most comfortable headwear to sport on a plane. Instead, pick up a pack of these satin scrunchies that keep your locks healthy and luscious without causing creasing or breakage. At just $8 for a pack of five, the scrunchies are just under $2 apiece.

Don’t Wear: a Tank Top

Wear this instead: a comfy layer.

Even if you’re headed to a warm weather destination, make sure to pack an extra layer. Airplane cabin temperature is notoriously fickle, quickly oscillating from hot to cold, so don’t forget to keep a cozy cardigan tucked into your carry-on suitcase. We like this sleek open-front cardigan that’s currently 54 percent off thanks to an on-site coupon. The cardigan is equipped with deep pockets and has a breathable, airy design that’s practically made for traveling.

Don’t Wear: an Underwire Bra

Wear this instead: a bralette or sports bra.

Longhaul flights are tedious enough, why make them worse by wearing an underwire bra that’s guaranteed to dig into your skin throughout the entire duration of the trip? Of course that doesn’t mean that you have to entirely forego support, and this Hanes seamless bralette is a far more comfortable choice. The breathable, ribbed material keeps you cool regardless of the temperature on your flight, and the smooth and supportive fit will immediately have you trading in your underwire bras. Best of all, it’s even available in sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with a major discount bringing the price down to just $6.

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Daily budget Basic €55/occasional treat €75. Drink Beer ( pivo ) €2.50. Food Pancake ( blini ) €1.50. Hostel/Budget hotel €15–25/€45. Travel Train: Moscow–St Petersburg from €25.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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R&K Essentials: Mayakovskaya Metro Station

Mar 18 2018.

WHAT TO SEE: Mayakovskaya Metro Station

Designed and constructed during the optimistic Futurist moment of the early 20th century, Mayakovskaya metro station is a relic from the early days of Soviet Russia. Named after the Futurist poet Vladimir Mayakovsky, who conceptualized it, and built by architect Alexey Dushkin, the metro station transports you to the imagination of those who envisioned a better future for Russia in a Communist society. The station was built deep underground in 1938 using aeronautical engineering techniques, just in time to be used as a bomb shelter for World War II. Joseph Stalin famously gave a radio-broadcast speech there in 1941, celebrating the 24th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution. There are thirty-four ceiling mosaics by artist Aleksandr Deyneka, comprising a piece called “24-Hour Soviet Sky,” which depicts idealized tableaus of Soviet life. The mosaics are inlaid into deep-carved niches, and can only be viewed when standing directly underneath them looking up, as if looking upwards through the ceiling and at the city above ground.

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Watch CBS News

Russia arrests another suspect in the concert hall attack that killed 144

April 27, 2024 / 10:14 AM EDT / CBS/AP

A Moscow court has detained another suspect as an accomplice in the attack by gunmen on a suburban Moscow concert hall that killed 144 people in March, the Moscow City Courts Telegram channel said Saturday.

Dzhumokhon Kurbonov, a citizen of Tajikistan, is accused of providing the attackers with means of communication and financing. The judge at Moscow's Basmanny District Court ruled that Kurbonov would be kept in custody until May 22, pending investigation and trial.

Russian state news agency RIA Novosti said Kurbonov was reportedly detained on April 11 for 15 days on the administrative charge of petty hooliganism. Independent Russian media outlet Mediazona noted that this is a common practice used by Russian security forces to hold a person in custody while a criminal case is prepared against them.

Four gunmen  allegedly carried out the attack , firing into the crowd at the Crocus City Hall concert venue, according to prior CBS News reporting. Some concertgoers were shot at point-blank range. Hundreds were injured, and the attackers also set the concert hall, which is connected to a shopping mall, on fire, causing a partial collapse of the building's roof.  

"The shots were constant," eyewitness Dave Primov told CBS News. "People panicked and started to run. Some fell down and were trampled on." 

Twelve defendants have been arrested in the case, including the four who allegedly carried out the attack. Those four appeared in the same Moscow court at the end of March on terrorism charges and showed signs of severe beatings . One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing. The court ordered that the men, all of whom were identified in the media as citizens of Tajikistan, also be held in custody until May 22.

A faction of the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the massacre, but Russian officials including President Vladimir Putin have persistently claimed, without presenting evidence, that Ukraine and the West had a role in the attack.

Ukraine denies involvement and its officials claim that Moscow is pushing the allegation as a pretext to intensify its fighting in Ukraine.

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