I have been a full-time travel blogger since 2018, so you can say I have perfected the list of essential items I always pack. No matter where I go, these are the items you will find in my bag, and I believe they really act as travel essentials for anyone who is preparing to jet set!
This list is not a fluff list but my true essential packing list. I have provided links to some of my favorite items and include travel tips on why you should consider having some of these items as well!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Carry-on Bag
- Checked Suitcase
- Travel Backpack
- AirTags
- Headphone Jack
- Purell and Lysol Wipes
- Travel Compression Bags
- Power Bank
- Universal Power Adaptor (International)
- Travel Credit Card
- Travel Towel
- Compression Socks
- Sunglasses
- A Hat for the Season
- Travel Shoes
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Camera Bag
- Clear Toiletry Bag
- First-Aid Kit
- Camera Equipment
- Carbon Monoxide Detector
- Travel Essentials Packing List Wrap-up
Carry-on Bag
If you have been following me for a while, you know your girl travels carry-on only whenever possible. I haven’t checked a bag since 2018, and I truly believe you fit everything you need in a carry-on and backpack. I’ve used Delsey Carry-on bags for years and have had zero issues. However, I did just upgrade to the Away Bigger Carry-on Suitcase. What I love about carry-on is that you never have to wait for baggage claim or worry about your bag getting lost.
Checked Suitcase
I know not everyone wants to travel carry-on, although I love doing it. Again, I have Delsey, although they don’t make the hardshell I have anymore. Away Luggage also has larger hardshell bags as well, but they are on the pricy side.
Travel Backpack
I think a travel backpack is one of the most essential items, whether you’re traveling, carry-on, or checked. This is what I use to hold all my important toiletries, medicines, a small whistle (yep, I have this), and additional items, just in case I have to gate-check my bag. I will also put my toothbrush, mini hair brush, chargers, and anything else I can possibly fit to make all my things fit. This is also vital to have in case they lose your luggage.
Since I am traveling for work, I usually travel with a lot of camera gear, so I opted for the Lowe Pro Camera bag, which acts as both a camera bag and a travel backpack. I also really like the Osprey travel backpacks. They are reliable, and I just got one for my mom.
AirTags
I am always shocked when I hear that travelers haven’t heard about AirTags. You drop them in your luggage, and they have a Bluetooth connection with your iPhone. This way, you always know where your bags are – especially if you check a bag! If you don’t have an iPhone, you can use a title or something similar.
Even though I only travel with carry-on, I still always put them in all my bags. You never know, which is why if you get anything from this travel essentials list, let it be these.
Headphone Jack
Have you ever got on a plane, went to plug in your headphones, and realized they have a 2 prong jack? Now you’re stuck on a 7-hour flight with crappy headphones. Cool, so I am not the only one, lol! I love my Sony Noise Canceling headphones, but I can’t tell you how many times I have to use the 2-prong adapter.
Or, maybe you like your AirPods. Then you will want to get AirFly so you can enjoy them on the plane!
Purell and Lysol Wipes
Another essential I don’t fly without is Purell and Lysol Wipes. I swear, every time I wipe down that airplane tray, I am low-key disgusted. I am not sure what goes on with cleaning these planes, but I don’t like leaving it up to chance.
Travel Compression Bags
As a carry-on girl, you won’t catch me traveling without my essential compression travel bags. For a long time, I used packing cubes. They have a time and a place, but these plastic compression bags are next level.
For one, they allow you to fit so much in one bag, making more room in your suitcase. Number two, they allow me to easily separate dirty clothes, keeping the inside of my suitcase clean. Lastly, they keep any potential crawly critters out of my clothes, so I don’t bring home any unwanted friends. Yeah, I am talking to you, bed bugs. You don’t even need a pump, and they are pretty affordable.
Power Bank
We all know our phones die so much faster when we are on vacation taking pictures and using navigation. That is why I never travel without a power bank. There is nothing worse than having your phone die when you need it for directions to get back to your hotel, so make sure to add this to your travel essentials too.
Universal Power Adaptor (International)
If you’re traveling internationally, you don’t want to forget your Universal Adaptor. I have been using this travel Adaptor since 2018 around Europe, Asia, and Central America. I will say that in South Africa, they use a variety of plugs, and one of those is not on this one. But overall, this adaptor has covered me all over the world. It is always so much cheaper to bring your own than to buy one when you arrive.
Travel Credit Card
I never use cash if I don’t have to. Instead, I always travel with 2 friendly travel credit cards. These have no foreign transaction fees and offer high point value for traveling.
I personally use the Venture X card, which gives me free lounge access and 2x on all my purchases, my Chase Saphire Preserve for better points on meals, and my Amex gold, which gives me the best point value for meals. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, so I always have one of those and my Amex since it generally gives me more points for travel.
Travel Towel
Another travel essential I don’t leave without is my travel towel. I discovered these by a fellow traveler in Thailand, and they are a game changer for me. I use Dock and Bay quick dry towels, although there are several brands out there, and they act like a sham wow towel, essentially.
They are super small and compact, making it easy to pack and travel in my carry-on bag.
Compression Socks
Since I fly a lot, I like to bring compression socks with me. If I am not wearing these, I usually wear high Darn Tough socks. I am not sure if they actually act as a compression, but they are my all-time favorite sock, so there.
Sunglasses
This may seem obvious, but I can’t tell you how many “new” pairs of glasses Alex has had to buy because he forgets his sunglasses. It doesn’t matter what season it is, I always add sunglasses to my travel essentials.
A Hat for the Season
You can never go wrong with a hat when traveling. During the Spring and Summer, I opt for a summer sun hat. Not only will it keep the sun out of your eyes, but it helps tie together an outfit, which is why I think it’s one of my favorite travel essentials.
During the winter, I bring either a beanie or a felt hat. I just put it on my head or a clip for the plane ride.
Travel Shoes
The wrong shoes can ruin a travel experience, so I always choose comfort over style. In my humble opinion, I think my comfort shoes actually have style, but you can be the judge of that. I love packing my Blundstone Chelsea boots, a cushion Converse Sneaker, or my Birkenstock Sandals. You will almost always see me wearing one of these in any travel photo I take. As an added bonus, I always pack a shoe bag or a couple of plastic bags so I don’t get dirt in my suitcase or on my clean clothes.
Shoe travel tip: Never wear brand-new shoes on vacation. Make sure to break them in a little to avoid blisters.
Reusable Water Bottle
I think it is so essential to travel with a reusable water bottle. Not only is it better for the environment, but it will also save you a ton of money. It is super important to stay hydrated on the plane, so whether you get the one I recommend or not, just bring one. I have been using the 40oz Manna water bottle, which I really love, but it is big. I also have a couple of Themos bottles and a Lifestraw (which has a filter).
EarPlanes & Motion Bands
Does the pressure in your ears for take-off and landing bother you? I just recently learned about EarPlanes, and wow, what a game-changer. You can almost always find them at the airport, but it’s way cheaper to buy them ahead of time, and they help pressurize your ears.
I also don’t travel without my motion sickness bands. I generally don’t get motion sickness too often, but when I do, I put these on.
Camera Bag
As a full-time travel blogger, I am, of course, bringing camera gear to show off these destinations to you. Whether you’re a travel blogger like me or someone who loves to bring their camera along, I found a great messenger bag. Its a BagSmart crossover that acts as a purse for me as well as a camera bag. I really love it.
Clear Toiletry Bag
It is always a good idea to have a clear toiletry bag with you. I opt for clear because International travel often requires it for toiletries. So, to eliminate the headache, just get a clear one and add a few of these to your travel essentials packing list.
Within my toiletry bag, I am packing travel-sized liquids and bar soap.
First-Aid Kit
I don’t travel without making myself a little first-aid kit. I always include things like bandaids, allergy medicine, cold meds, acid meds, etc. I seem to have bad luck when traveling and have learned that many of the brands I am used to are not always carried. Therefore, I just bring a small medicine kit with me.
Camera Equipment
I have brought it up several times before, but I, of course, can’t travel without my camera equipment. I have a drone, mirrorless camera, Gopro, etc, but you may not be in the field of photography. However, I still think bringing some sort of camera or phone accessory for your photos is worth it. You can see all my camera gear here.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Have you seen the stories about people having issues with hotels not having Carbon Monoxide detectors in the room? These stories have ended unfavorably; therefore, I just bring one with me. You never know. I’d rather be safe than sorry on this one!
Travel Essentials Packing List Wrap-up
That concludes all the essentials I will not travel without. Depending on the destination, I sometimes add a raincoat, hiking boots, snow gear, etc. If you want to see more detailed packing guides, you can find them here.
If you have any questions or suggestions on something that I should try adding to my essential travel list, let me know!
Here are some other guides you will enjoy!
- Complete Beach Packing List
- Best Travel Apps to Have
- Travel Outfits for Photos
- Top Tips to Know for Your First International Trip
- Expenses to Cut So You Can Travel More
Did you find this ultimate packing list of travel essentials helpful? I would appreciate it if you could share it below!
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert travel blogger, I have been traveling full-time since 2018, which has given me extensive experience in packing and knowing the essential items to bring on any trip. Throughout my travels, I have refined my packing list and identified the items that I consider to be travel essentials. I have firsthand experience with these items and can provide valuable insights on why they are important to have. Let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article and discuss each one:
Carry-on Bag
Carrying a well-designed carry-on bag is crucial for efficient and hassle-free travel. I have personally used Delsey Carry-on bags for years and recently upgraded to the Away Bigger Carry-on Suitcase. These bags have proven to be reliable and durable, allowing me to fit everything I need while avoiding the inconvenience of checked baggage.
Checked Suitcase
While I prefer to travel with only a carry-on bag, I understand that not everyone wishes to do so. In such cases, having a good quality checked suitcase is essential. Brands like Delsey and Away Luggage offer reliable options with hardshell designs for added protection.
Travel Backpack
A travel backpack is a versatile and essential item for any type of travel, whether you're using a carry-on or checked bag. I personally use a travel backpack to store my important toiletries, medicines, and additional items. It is also vital to have a travel backpack in case your luggage gets lost. Brands like Lowe Pro and Osprey offer reliable and functional travel backpack options.
AirTags
AirTags are a relatively new innovation that can greatly enhance the security of your luggage. By connecting to your iPhone via Bluetooth, AirTags allow you to track the location of your bags, even if you check them. They are a valuable addition to any travel essentials list.
Headphone Jack
Having the right audio accessories is important for a comfortable travel experience. Whether you prefer noise-canceling headphones like the Sony Noise Canceling headphones or enjoy using AirPods, it's essential to have a 2-prong adapter or an AirFly for compatibility with different airplane audio systems.
Purell and Lysol Wipes
Maintaining cleanliness while traveling is crucial, especially on airplanes. Purell and Lysol wipes are convenient and effective for sanitizing surfaces, such as airplane trays, ensuring a hygienic environment during your journey.
Travel Compression Bags
Compression bags are a game-changer for maximizing space and organizing your belongings. Plastic compression bags, such as those used for travel, offer several advantages. They allow you to fit more items into your suitcase, separate dirty clothes, and protect your belongings from potential pests. They are a great alternative to traditional packing cubes.
Power Bank
With the heavy use of smartphones for photography and navigation during travel, a power bank is essential for keeping your devices charged. It ensures that you won't be left without a working phone when you need it most.
Universal Power Adaptor (International)
For international travel, a universal power adaptor is a must-have item. It allows you to plug your devices into different types of power outlets worldwide. Having your own adaptor is not only convenient but can also save you money compared to purchasing one at your destination.
Travel Credit Card
Using a travel credit card is a smart choice for several reasons. It eliminates the need for carrying cash, provides protection against fraud, and often offers rewards and benefits specifically tailored for travelers. Cards like Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Amex Gold are popular choices that offer various advantages for travel-related expenses.
Travel Towel
Travel towels are compact, quick-drying towels that are perfect for travelers. Brands like Dock and Bay offer high-quality travel towels that are lightweight and take up minimal space in your bag. They are a practical alternative to regular towels and are great for beach trips or other occasions where a towel is needed.
Compression Socks
Compression socks are a must-have for frequent flyers or those prone to leg swelling during long flights. They help improve circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Brands like Darn Tough offer high-quality compression socks that provide both comfort and style.
Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful rays is essential, regardless of the season. Remembering to pack sunglasses is often overlooked but can make a significant difference in your travel experience.
A Hat for the Season
A hat is a versatile accessory that can provide both style and functionality while traveling. Whether it's a sun hat for warmer seasons or a beanie for colder climates, a hat can protect you from the elements and complete your travel outfits.
Travel Shoes
Choosing the right shoes for travel is crucial for comfort and enjoyment. Prioritizing comfort over style is recommended, and popular options include Blundstone Chelsea boots, cushioned Converse sneakers, and Birkenstock sandals. It's also wise to pack shoe bags or plastic bags to keep dirt away from your clean clothes.
Reusable Water Bottle
Traveling with a reusable water bottle is not only environmentally friendly but also saves you money on purchasing bottled water. Staying hydrated during flights is important, so having a water bottle on hand is essential. Brands like Manna, Thermos, and Lifestraw offer reliable and convenient options.
EarPlanes & Motion Bands
For those who experience discomfort or pressure in their ears during take-off and landing, EarPlanes can be a game-changer. These earplugs help equalize pressure and minimize discomfort. Motion sickness bands are also useful for individuals prone to motion sickness, providing relief during travel.
Camera Bag
For travel bloggers and photography enthusiasts, a camera bag is essential for carrying camera equipment securely. Messenger bags like the BagSmart crossover offer a combination of style and functionality, allowing you to protect and organize your camera gear effectively.
Clear Toiletry Bag
Having a clear toiletry bag is convenient, especially for international travel where clear bags are often required for toiletries during security checks. Opting for a clear bag eliminates the need for transferring liquids into separate containers, saving you time and hassle.
First-Aid Kit
Creating a small first-aid kit is a smart and proactive approach to ensure you have essential medications and supplies while traveling. Including items like band-aids, allergy medicine, cold medicine, and acid medicine can come in handy, as brands and medications may vary in different countries.
Camera Equipment
For photography enthusiasts, bringing camera equipment is essential to capture memorable travel moments. Whether it's a drone, mirrorless camera, GoPro, or smartphone accessories, having the right equipment can enhance your travel experience.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Safety should always be a priority when traveling, and having a portable carbon monoxide detector is a precautionary measure worth considering. It can provide peace of mind, especially in situations where hotels or accommodations may not have carbon monoxide detectors installed.
This comprehensive list of travel essentials covers a wide range of items that can enhance your travel experience and ensure you are well-prepared for any situation. By packing these essential items, you can travel with confidence, knowing you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
