Going on a trip and want to know what you should bring? Check out these top 5 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 an exciting adventure, whether it’s a leisurely vacation or a business trip. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, packing the right items is crucial. Here are the top five basic essentials to bring when traveling to make your trip hassle-free and more enjoyable.
1. Travel Documents and Basic Essentials
Before embarking on any journey, it’s important to have all 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. Universal Adapter, Converter & Power Strip
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.
- Port accepts 10 plug types: built-in adapters covers 150 countries + 4 USB ports
- This is an amazing all-in-one device! No extra attachments make this an easy packable item
- → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- For US plugs: has 6 adapter attachments + 2 USB ports
- I love these because of the connected charger so that’s one less charger cord to worry about! The included attachments also cover so many countries so you can only bring the one(s) you need
- 2A) + connected USB-C charger + 2 USB-C ports → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 2B) + connected micro USB charger → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
Universal adapter + Converter
An adapter that also includes a converter to convert the voltage of an outlet to match the needs of your higher wattage devices. This is perfect for powering curling irons and hair straighteners when abroad!
- Port accepts 10 plug types: + 4 USB ports + built-in adapters
- This is an amazing all-in-one device! No extra attachments make this an easy packable item
- → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- For US plugs: has 4 USB ports + 4 adapter attachments
- The included attachments cover so many countries so you can bring the one(s) you need!
- 2A) + 2 AC outlets → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 2B) + 3 AC outlets → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- The included attachments cover so many countries so you can bring the one(s) you need!
Compact Power Strip
A small power strip will work wonders to charge multiple devices from a single outlet. Combo using this with a converter to power the power strip without worry!
- For US plugs: has 3 AC outlets + 4 USB ports (or 3 USB + 1 USB-C ports)
- This is awesome if you have a ton of devices that requires a USB port to charge
- → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- For US plugs: has 3 AC outlets & cord wraps around unit for convenient packing
- I absolutely love the packability of these with the wraparound cord design. Makes it so easy to pack and handle!
- 2A) + 1 USB + 2 USB-C ports → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 2B) + 3 USB → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
3. First Aid and Medication Kit
A compact first aid kit and essential medications should always find a place in your luggage. Whether you’re healthy or are prone to unexpected issues, it’s always best to be prepared for the worst. Your First aid and medication kit should include items like:
First Aid & Medicine Organizer
- Band-Aids, gauze, and antiseptic wipes: Helpful for minor injuries or cuts
- I always carry: Travel Mini First Aid Kit → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- Medicine Organizer Container: To hold all of the below medications in one place. These also come with sticker labels to organize and keep track of what’s what
- 2A) Comes with blank sticker labels for customization → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 2B) Comes with brand name sticker labels → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
Medications
- 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 sickness when in a car, on a boat, or in the ocean
- I always carry: Dramamine
- Prescription medications: Ensure an adequate supply for the duration of your trip
Having these items on hand can save you time and discomfort in case of minor health issues or unexpected emergencies.
4. Travel-Friendly Toiletries
While many accommodations provide basic toiletries, having a travel-sized kit can be convenient especially during transit or for personal preferences. Essential toiletries include:
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer and hand sanitizer
Opt for travel-sized containers to comply with liquid restrictions, and also consider reusable toiletry bottles to reduce waste. I use:
- Travel-size Toiletry bottles
- 1A) Leak-proof 3oz bottles → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 1B) Leak-proof 3oz bottles w/ case → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 1C) 16 pieces and variable size containers w/ case → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- Toiletry bottle covers for larger toiletry items → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- Toiletry Travel bag to hold all your toiletry items
- 3A) Hangable w/ multiple compartments for extra organization → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
- 3B) Smaller yet w/ a large main compartment → Click here to buy now @ Amazon
5. Appropriate Clothing and Footwear
Packing versatile clothing suitable for the destination’s weather and activities is key. Consider the climate and local customs when selecting your outfits. A mix of casual wear, formal attire (if needed), and comfortable shoes for walking or hiking is essential. Additionally, it’s wise to pack layers that can be easily mixed and matched to accommodate temperature changes.
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!