Going on a trip and want to know what you should bring? Check out these top 7 basic travel essentials every traveler should bring regardless if you’re a beginner or an expert.
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Basic Travel Essentials
Traveling is exciting regardless if it’s a leisurely vacation, a jam-packed adventure, or a business trip. However, it’s important to be prepared and pack the right items to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Here are the top 7 basic essentials to bring when traveling to make your trip hassle-free and more enjoyable. I’ve also included various options to fit different preferences, and links to purchase items from Amazon.
1. Travel Documents and Basic Essentials
This one may go without saying, but it needs to be said! The last thing you want is to forget your passport or ID once you’re at the airport! SO before embarking on any journey, it’s important to have all the necessary travel documents organized and easily accessible. These include:
- Passport/ID: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months from your return date
- Visas and relevant permits: Research and obtain necessary visas or permits for your destination
- Printed Itinerary: Having a physical copy of your itinerary, accommodation details, and important contacts can be invaluable in case of technology failure
- Travel insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances with comprehensive travel insurance
- SafetyWing: Budget-friendly travel medical insurance → Check it out here (or use the widget below)
Keeping these documents in a secure, easily accessible place within your carry-on or personal bag can make for a stress-free travel experience. Additionally, take photos of your Passport/ID so that it’s also accessible on your phone. I have an “Important Docs” photo album on my phone specifically for these and other important paperwork.
2. Phone Lanyard
If you’re prone to losing or misplacing your phone, or you just want to be sure where it is at all times, then a phone lanyard is for you! I literally do not go ANYWHERE without this and has become one of my TOP basic travel essentials!! Having a phone lanyard adds another layer of being worry- and stress-free while you’re on your travels. You will always know where it is at all times while it’s connected to your wrist or around your neck.
This phone lanyard comes with both a wristlet lanyard and a neck lanyard so that you have options on how you want your phone to stay with you.
Neck Strap and Wrist Tether Key Chain Holder Universal for Phone Case Anchor Fit All Smartphones
3. Universal Adapter & Voltage Converter
In this technology-driven age, our devices are our lifelines. To keep these gadgets operational throughout your trip, pack the necessities to power and charge them.
Universal Adapter
An adapter is definitely a must-have when traveling to a different country! Choose an adapter that suits the power outlets of your destination country to power and charge your own devices.
Built-In Plug Adapters
This is an amazing all-in-one device! Port accepts 10 plug types and has built-in plug adapters that covers 150 countries + 4 USB ports. No extra attachments make this an easy packable item
One International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power and 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS
For US Plug Devices (2 USB- & 2 USB-C)
I love this adapter because of the connected built-in USB-C charger (which I use to charge my portable power bank) so that’s one less charger cord to worry about! It also has two USB-C ports (perfect to charge my iPhone and Apple Watch simultaneously), and 2 USB-A ports is sufficient to charge my other devices (like my camera and portable fan). The included attachments also cover so many countries so you can only bring the one(s) you need for your trip.
2 USB-A, USB-C US Outlets, 20W/QC 18W Power Delivery, Surge Protection, SWADAPT Compatible for Europe, UK, China, Australia, Japan Perfect Laptop (WPS-5B)
For US Plug Devices (2 USB-A)
A cheaper option compared to the above adapter. This one doesn’t include the 2 USB-C ports (in case you don’t have Apple devices), but still has 2 USB-A ports and the connected built-in USB-C port.
2 USB, USB-C Cord+2 US Outlets QC 3.0, Surge Protection, Plugs for Europe, UK, China, Australia, Japan - Perfect for Laptop, Cell Phones, Cameras,Safe ETL Tested
Universal Adapter + Voltage Converter
If you’re traveling to a country whose outlet voltage differs from your country (like the U.S. @ 110V, and Europe @ 220V), then you’ll need an adapter with a converter to convert the voltage of an outlet to match the needs of your devices. This is perfect for powering curling irons and hair straighteners when abroad!
This converter works great for US electric devices that need its voltage converted to use while abroad. I was able to use my hair straightener without worry, and it has sufficient USB-A ports and the 2 AC sockets were sufficient to charge all my devices using just this converter. Not only that, but this also automatically shuts off if it detects over-current or short-circuiting which will protect your devices from damage. The included attachments also cover so many countries so you can bring just the one(s) you need!
Power Step Down 220V to 110V Travel Voltage Converter International Power Adapter for Hair Straightener/Curling Iron with 4-Port USB Charging US/UK/AU/IT/EU Universal Plug Adapter
4. First Aid Kit
A compact first aid kit should always find a place in your luggage. You never know what will happen when abroad and being prepared with a first aid kit will prove useful in unexpected situations.
Contains a variety of items including bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. This would be helpful for minor injuries or cuts
110 Piece Small First Aid Kit - Includes Emergency Foil Blanket, Scissors for Travel, Home, Office, Vehicle, Camping, Workplace & Outdoor
5. Medication Kit
Regardless if you’re healthy or are prone to unexpected issues, it’s always best to be prepared for the worst. Bring essential medications and organize them in one place with a handy pill organizer.
Medicine Organizer
These are perfect to hold all of your medications in one place. These also come with sticker labels to organize and keep track of what’s what
4PS Travel Pill Organizer with 164 Slice Labels,10 Compartments Travel Pill Box Portable Folding Small Pill Case Daily Pill Container Used for Carry Storage Medicine Organizer by M MUchengbao
RELATED: Top 8 Packing Items to Organize your Belongings
Medications
Having the beloe over-the-counter medications on hand can save you time and discomfort in case of minor health issues or unexpected emergencies. Pack them all in one place with the medicine organizer above! But also don’t forget to bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications and daily vitamins to last the duration of your trip.
Pain Relievers
Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or any prescribed pain medication. These have saved me when I’ve caught a cold while abroad or have woken up with back and neck pains
- I always carry: Advil & Tylenol for Cold & Flu
Antihistamines
Useful for allergies or unexpected reactions. You never know what type of new foods you’ll react to so best to be prepared in case you find out something new about yourself
- I always carry: Benadryl
Gastrointestinal Medications
Useful to aid any stomach issues you may encounter while trying new foods. These have helped so much when something just hasn’t exactly agreed with me. These are the last thing you want to be searching for when you’re “going through it”
- I always carry: Tums, Gas-X, Pepto Bismal, Imodium, Lactaid
Motion Sickness Medications
Useful to prevent expected or unexpected motion sickness when in a car, on a boat or cruise ship, or swimming/diving in the ocean.
- I always carry: Dramamine
6. Travel-Friendly Toiletries
While many accommodations provide basic toiletries, having a travel-sized kit can be convenient especially during transit or for personal preferences.
Basic toiletry travel essentials include:
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer and hand sanitizer
For a comprehensive list of all toiletry items I use, check out Toiletry Essentials for Travel: Your Comprehensive Packing Guide. A few notable toiletry essentials from the list:
Multi-compartment Toiletry Travel bag
I love this toiletry bag because it’s hangable and has multiple compartments for extra organization. The transparent pockets make it easy to find items too.
With Hanging Hook, Water-resistant Makeup Cosmetic Bag Travel Organizer for Accessories, Shampoo, Full-size Container, Toiletries
Portable Steamer
I love this steamer because it’s foldable, compact, heats up fast, and sufficiently rids clothes of wrinkles. This has definitely become one of my toiletry essentials I bring with me when I know I’m packing easily-wrinkled clothing fabrics, such as rayon.
1200W Travel Steamer with Horizontal & Vertical Steaming, 2 Steam Levels, Dry Ironing, Foldable, 1.5lbs Lightly, 180ml Handheld Fabric Wrinkle Remover (120V Only)
Travel-size Hand Sanitizer
Absolute must for a quick way to sanitize your hands from bacteria and germs. Comes in a rubber holder you can attach to your bag or carryon for easy accessibility.
Dissolvable Soap Sheets
Extremely convenient when you’re in need of soap. Some public restrooms may not have soap, so these are great to stay clean for exactly these moments. Also, they’re super compact and easy to pack and bring with you everywhere.
7. Appropriate Clothing and Footwear
Clothing
Packing versatile clothing suitable for the destination’s weather and activities is key. Consider the climate and local customs when selecting your outfits.
For example, if you’re traveling to Morocco or Thailand, it is customary for females to wear more conservative clothing that cover your knees and shoulders, specifically in places of worship. These destinations can also be quite hot so look for light and airy clothing that still follow their local customs.
A mix of casual wear, formal attire (if needed), and swimming attire (if applicable), is essential. Additionally, it’s wise to pack layers that can be easily mixed and matched to accommodate temperature changes.
Footwear
When traveling, it’s imperative to wear and bring comfortable shoes for walking. For an open-toed option, I swear by Crocs’ Brooklyn Collection for women. They provide the famously sought-for comfort that Crocs is known for, and they’re cute and goes with any outfit! I have brought these to almost every destination (non- cold weather) and I can last all day on my feet in them. The extra height boost from the 1.9-inch (4.8-cm) platform is an added bonus for a shortie like me too.
Final Words
Packing efficiently and thoughtfully can significantly enhance your travel experience. By focusing on these top five basic travel essentials, you can have a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Lastly, adapt this list to suit your specific needs and destination and aim for a balance between preparedness and traveling light. Safe travels and Bon Voyage!