Last Updated on September 6, 2024
During all the excitement of planning a holiday, packing is often left as an afterthought and done in a frenzied rush the night before the flight. This common ritual of unpreparedness is sometimes harmless, but often leads to a dreaded “oh no” moment when you’re thousands of miles away from home in a foreign land. In some bad cases, it can even ruin a holiday experience or become costly to fix the issue.
So before your next packing frenzy, be sure to check the following 20 essentials are tucked away safely in your travel bag. That way you’ll be prepared for any situation!
Master Lock
Not exactly the first thing that comes to mind, but you can see why a lock (or many) would be an essential for travel. Keep your possessions safe and don’t worry about misplacing the keys by using a combination lock for easy access and inspection.
GoPro HERO3+
Cameras have long been a staple item for trips and it’s no wonder why – they’re great for taking a snapshot of moments that end up as the memories you take home with you. But there are certain activities and situations where a camera can’t go; that’s where the GoPro comes in. Capture entire activities instead of just snapshots with the GoPro’s easy recording. The HERO3+ is 20% smaller and lighter than its best-selling predecessor, with 30% longer battery life, and improved image quality, making it perfect for capturing those moments in your travel where a camera just won’t do.
Kindle Paperwhite
Even the most extreme party animal has some downtime, and there’s nothing quite like reading your favorite book whilst chilling on a golden beach somewhere, or even on the long flights between destinations. With a battery life that lasts weeks, no glare, and being 30% lighter than an iPad, the Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect, compact reading companion for your travels.
Paying Cards
More than just another downtime activity, playing cards are also great for – you guessed it – drinking games. Break up the monotony of a long flight or train ride with one of the many card games for all number of players. In fact, playing cards are so versatile that having a deck with you should really just be common sense.
Ear Plugs
Not everyone can travel in luxury, and even then, sometimes the family or companion is too noisy for you to get your rest. Sometimes, even the tiniest distractions can prevent you from sleeping. Ear plugs will save you some sleepless nights when the whole world around you is still partying and you just want to get some rest.
Money Belt
Convenience, meets safety and good sense – the money belt is a must for travellers who wish to protect their valuables and make sure important documents are kept safe, such as passports. Certain destinations are well-known for their pickpockets, and nothing ruins a trip like being robbed or losing something valuable. Secure and comfortable, the money belt is an essential safety and convenience item for all travellers.
Microfiber Towel
You will always need a towel to wipe off, unless you plan on going your entire trip without ever getting dirty or wet, but there’s a lot of hassle involved with drying on the go. Microfiber towels are lightweight, compact, and most importantly, dry very quickly. No need to be bogged down by a soggy, wet towel leaving a musty smell amongst your belongings and breeding bacteria. Get a quick drying microfiber towel for your travels.
Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Bottle
A durable container for an essential part of life – water. The lid has a handy loop that can be attached to the side of your bag, making it space-efficient. No more crushed bottles, leaks, or running out of space. Plastic bottles also develop a smell and taste over time, which isn’t an issue with this stainless steel bottle.
Universal Travel Adapter
Modern life revolves around electricity. There’s nothing worse than going to a foreign country and not being able to charge any of your electronics. Your phones, cameras, GoPro, Kindle, tablets, hair dryer/straightener, and laptops will all need power, so make sure you’re equipped with a proper adapter for any situation and appliance. Don’t rely on your hotel having one; even if it does you’ll find that you need your electronics at the strangest times and locations.
Journal
Just as a camera or GoPro records visual memories, a journal the perfect way to record emotions and thoughts that you experience on your travel. Plus it’s always handy to have something to write stuff down on – you never know when you’ll need to organise something, copy down directions, or even the number of someone you just met!
