10 Best Travel Must Haves & Essentials for Every Trip!

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10 Best Travel Must Haves & Essentials for Every Trip!
Take the guesswork out of packing and start with these travel essentials. From the obvious to the ingenious, discover the must-haves you'll need to ensure your trip is successful!
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If you're one of those people who procrastinate when it comes to packing, then you know how stressful packing at the last minute can get.

Chances are you always leave some or other travel essentials behind. Using a packing list is a total lifesaver when you're in a packing jam!

But even if you're the most organized traveler, figuring out exactly which travel essentials you need can be tricky. That's why I'm here to help...

After traveling so often, I've learned from firsthand experience which items are must haves in your luggage. Whether you're a digital nomad working and traveling or finally getting away on a relaxing vacation, you'll have things you won't want to leave home without.

Now these are somewhat subjective, but I'll do my best to cover must have travel items that, based on my experience, enhanced my travel experience!

10 Best Travel Must Haves for All Travel

I'll start with a list of travel essentials I feel will be beneficial to any traveler, no matter your travel style or purpose.

After that, I'll be more specific! On top of these 8 necessities for travel, I'll also give you my top travel items based on the type of traveler you are.

Let's dive in...

woman packing a green suitcase on her bed
Image Courtesy of Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels

10. Compression Socks

Long gone are the days when compression socks were only for the elderly or those with specific medical conditions.

Today, they've become a universal travel essential, especially for those who find themselves sitting for extended periods. Long-haul flights or car rides, anyone?

Compression socks are designed to improve blood circulation, reduce leg swelling, and generally make your lower extremities more comfortable when you can't move around as much as you'd like.

They can make a world of difference in how you feel during and after your travels!

9. Weather-Appropriate Clothes

Weather-appropriate clothes are essential, but you'd be surprised how many people forget to check the weather forecast. The last thing you want to do is find yourself stranded in a foreign country with all the wrong clothes!

I once packed a suitcase full of summer clothes and bikinis on a trip to the south of Brazil, only to experience an entire week of cold rain. The struggle was real.

Before you pack, check the forecast and research the average temperatures for that time of year.

Pro tip: Always bring a bathing suit. You never know when you'll need one, even if you're going to a colder destination.

I'll list out a few of the top clothing necessities for vacation:

Waterproof Jacket

Pack a waterproof jacket and warm layers if it's raining or cold. The Switchback III Jacket from Columbia is a great travel essential to add to your wardrobe.

The rain jacket is lightweight and breathable while still being 100% waterproof. You'll be ready for anything from a drizzly day to a tropical downpour.

Plus, this is one of those nifty little travel essentials that rolls into a little pouch that can be kept in your pocket!

white Columbia rain jacket on a woman
Image Courtesy of Amazon

Versatile, Waterproof Shoes

I support trying to pack light—although that's not always the easiest feat. I find one thing I always overpack on is shoes...

So if I can find one pair of casual shoes that I can wear for multiple situations, I'll do that to decrease the number of shoes I'm packing.

An excellent choice that fits the bill is Vessi waterproof sneakers. They come in lots of different styles and colors. And after testing them out in rainy Vancouver, I can say for sure that they're 100% waterproof!

Once you read our Vessi review, you can use our discount code, PILOTPLANS, to purchase your pair!

Bathing Suit

As I mentioned, a bathing suit is one of the must have travel items on my list because even if I'm traveling to a cold destination, I often have the chance to wear a bathing suit. Whether I dip in the pool, relax in a hot tub, or cleanse myself using the sauna.

I tend to wear bikinis that will likely be accepted even in more conservative destinations. But, a stylish one-piece bathing suit is also a great option!

8. Headphones

Headphones are among the top must have air travel essentials for every vacation.

This is one of those items that I spend a bit more money on because durability and quality are essential in headphones!

One of the most popular ones is the Beats Studio3 Headphones, which will help you sleep like a baby on an airplane. A noise-cancelling pair of headphones can also help you in any noisy spot you may find yourself or to do work in a more crowded spot.

A pair of high-quality noise-canceling headphones really come in handy if you're staying in hostels during a backpacking trip, especially if you end up sharing a room with someone who snores.

Pair of black over-the-ear Beats
Image Courtesy of Amazon

7. Emergency Kit

Accidents and emergencies happen. A little first-aid kit can be a real lifesaver in a foreign country or on an outdoor adventure.

You should carry band-aids, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and antiseptic wipes in your emergency kit. These are the vaacation must haves you should carry to deal with cuts and bruises.

Pain and headache relievers are also crucial to have on hand. Allergy medication is necessary if you get stuffy during weather changes or around dust and pets.

For tropical destinations, make sure to pack insect repellent. And remember the aftersun in case your sunbathing gets a little out of hand!

If you take any prescription meds, make sure you have enough for the whole trip, and always bring a little extra, just in case. Better safe than sorry!

emer
Image Courtesy of Amazon

6. Specific Toiletries

This one may sound strange, but I've learned something after traveling to so many different places. There are some toiletries that are okay to buy abroad. But you should pack specific travel necessities in your luggage from home.

One thing is deodorant. I find that some countries have different deodorants that you won't be as comfortable with. Or it'll be super expensive. For instance, when I visited China, I hated the deodorant choices.

Now if you're a girl, I would also recommend bringing your own tampons. In many countries in Asia, it's extremely hard to find tampons. And if you do they're uncomfortable and overly expensive!

5. Toiletry Bag

Now that you know which travel toiletries you must pack from home, you'll also need a trusty toiletry bag.

Your toiletry bag is probably the most necessary of all the travel essentials. It's your primary source of hygiene, so you need to ensure it's practical and not stuffed with unnecessary items.

Along with the specific toiletries I mentioned above, you can also pack some of these toiletries if you're more comfortable bringing them from home:

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Q-tips (they are way more necessary than we give them credit for).
  • Razor
  • Essential, everyday makeup
  • Mini travel hairbrush
  • Contact lens cases and solution, if needed
  • Lotion
  • Sunscreen with decent SPF
  • Nail clipper or file

Make sure you bring a waterproof toiletry bag that's big enough to fit everything you need and offers easy access. There's nothing worse than rooting around for things every time you take a shower.

BAGSMART's toiletry bag is ideal because it's easy to find whatever you're looking for, easy to clean, and even has a hanging feature for when you reach your destination!

Alternatively, you could go with the uber-popular Gravel Travel Toiletry Bag.

Pro tip: In the days leading up to your trip, pay attention to the things you use and add them to your toiletry bag.

black toiletry bag with beige insides
Image Courtesy of Amazon

4. Small, Travel-Focused Wallet

You want to be practical and bring only travel essentials like your ID and credit cards. Investing in a nice, small wallet is a smart idea.

If not the smallest in size, make sure your wallet has features that are helpful when traveling like RFID blocking or the ability to hold your passport as well!

Smaller wallets are safer and easier to carry during the day, fitting into small bags and in your pockets out of sight from pickpockets.

3. Purse or Crossbody Sling

Sometimes traveling can mean an entire day outside, roaming the streets, and getting to know the place you're visiting. So it's essential to bring a practical and safe purse. You don't want to lug a backpack around every single day.

Bring a small bag that's hard to open, just in case you bump into pickpocketers in the busiest cities and streets. And let's face it—backpacks scream "tourist!".

If you're spending the day at the beach or picnicking at the park, a foldable bag is a stylish and practical way to carry everything you need. Since they fold into a small layer, you can easily pack them into your main luggage without too much space.

If you're going on more adventurous vacations, a crossbody sling is perfect for carrying all the travel essentials you'll need during the day.

Having it in front of you is ideal for keeping everything safe from prying fingers. The MOSISO Sling Backpack has smaller compartments you can hide your wallet and phone in.

Black crossbody sling
Image Courtesy of Amazon

2. Electronics: Travel Adapter & Portable Chargers

Aside from the normal electronics travelers carry, like a cell phone, tablet, or laptop, it makes sense to bring a few other electronic accessories.

Remember your charger unless you're willing to pay a fortune for one at the airport! And just as important is bringing the right adaptor.

Before traveling, research the plug types at your destination and ensure you have the correct adaptor. A universal adapter that works with many different plug types is a worthwhile investment.

Check for chargers before you leave the house, and bring them in your handbag so you can also charge your electronics at the airport. You can get portable chargers, perfect for trips where you spend a lot of time away from your accommodation.

1. Packing Cubes

I'm a complete mess when packing. I put my pants at the bottom of the suitcase, and sometimes I need to pull one pair out. Then my entire organizational system goes kaboom!

That's why packing cubes are my number 1 must have for travel. They're excellent because you can organize everything inside your suitcase in different sections without messing it all up in search of just one item.

I usually put pants and shirts inside one cube, dresses in another, underwear in another, and so it goes. Also, the packing cubes hold your clothes together compactly, making it much easier to fit everything in.

packing cubes traveling essentials in a bag
Captured by ©Pilot

Best Must Haves for Travel as a Digital Nomad

Kindle

Books are fantastic for those endless airport layovers and flights where you can't sleep. And of course, there's nothing better than lying on the beach or sitting at a café and spending time reading a good book.

Whether you're on a break from work or need to read some knowledge-based education books, getting a Kindle's a great idea.

It's an excellent investment since you'll be traveling a lot, and downloading a bunch of different books won't add any extra weight. The Kindle Paperwhite is a cute and compact device that will give you hours of reading pleasure.

I find that if I'm going on a short trip, I don't mind bringing a physical book, or 2, with me. But if I'm traveling to multiple destinations to work, then I find having an e-reader is truly a travel must have!

Woman reading chapter one of a book on a Kindle Paperwhite
Image Courtesy of Amazon

Wireless Mouse

A mouse might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of travel essentials, but if you're a digital nomad, it's an absolute game-changer.

Trust me, using a touchpad for extended periods can be a pain, especially if you're used to the precision and comfort of a mouse.

Opt for a wireless mouse to make your life easier. They're compact, easy to pack, and can drastically improve your productivity. Working from cafes, coworking spaces, or even hotel rooms becomes much more manageable with a good wireless mouse by your side.

Brands like Logitech offer some fantastic, travel-friendly options.

Microfiber Towel

When you're on the go constantly, a microfiber towel is one of the most versatile items you can pack. You don't want to be rushing to your next work destination and need to worry about drying your towel!

These towels are lightweight, compact, and dry incredibly quickly. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a swim, or need to dry off after an unexpected rain shower, having a microfiber towel on hand can be a lifesaver.

Not only are they practical for personal use, but they can also double as a makeshift tablecloth or even a seat cushion when you're working from various locations. Brands like Sea to Summit offer high-quality microfiber towels that come in various sizes.

man with colorful microfiber towel
Image Courtesy of Tyler Milligan on Unsplash

Traveling Essentials for Budget Travelers

Sleeping Mask

A sleeping mask is a highly underrated little item for comfort both at home and while out traveling!

If you're light-sensitive and struggle to sleep in anything but pitch dark, a sleeping mask should be at the top of your travel essentials list.

This may not be as important if you stay in hotels all the time, but if you're a budget traveler staying in hostels, this is one of the travel must haves you'll want to pack for better sleep!

Earplugs

Talking about being to sleep better while traveling as a budget traveler, you'll also want to pick up a pair of earplugs. If you're in a loud party hostel or your bunkmates aren't very polite, you'll be forever grateful you packed earplugs.

My recommendation is to get the well-reviewed and surprisingly affordable EarPlanes. They're known to keep out sounds while being helpful if you suffer from sore ears on the airplane.

If you don't need earplugs that help with the airplane pressure, you can grab a less specific pair of earplugs!

Woman putting an earplug in her ear
Image Courtesy of Tyler Milligan on Unsplash

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable, especially when you're traveling and exploring new places. But buying bottled water can quickly add up and isn't great for the environment.

This is where a reusable water bottle comes in handy!

A quality reusable water bottle is a godsend for budget travelers frequenting hostels. Many hostels offer free water refill stations, meaning you can fill up your bottle and head out for the day without spending a dime on drinks.

Not to mention, having your own water bottle allows you to avoid the awkward social scenario of constantly asking for free water at cafes or restaurants.

Brands like Nalgene and Hydro Flask offer durable options that can last you through countless trips. You could also look into a collapsible water bottle if you need to save space.

Top Travel Necessities Essentials for Solo Travelers

Door & Luggage Locks

For solo travelers, the importance of security can't be overstated.

Door and luggage locks become invaluable assets to secure your belongings and personal space. The reality is that even in seemingly safe environments, opportunities for theft or intrusion can exist.

A portable door lock can add a layer of security to your hostel or hotel room, making it nearly impossible for anyone to enter without your permission.

Similarly, luggage locks protect your valuables, especially in communal living spaces or while in transit.

If you're looking for a top travel item that'll last you a long time, brands like Master Lock and Pacsafe offer robust and travel-friendly locks.

red portable travel lock being used
Image Courtesy of Amazon

Safety Alarm

Personal safety alarms are another travel essential for solo travelers.

These compact devices can emit a loud sound that can deter potential threats and attract attention in emergency situations. Easily accessible, you can clip them onto your bag or keychain.

If you find yourself in an uncomfortable or risky situation, simply activate the alarm to draw immediate attention. Brands like Sabre and Vigilant have a range of easy-to-use, effective safety alarms.

Portable Charger

I already mentioned a portable charger as part of the essential electronics for all travelers, but I think this travel essential is even more important for a solo traveler.

After all, the last thing any solo traveler wants is to have their phone die on them while navigating an unfamiliar city or capturing memories. A portable power bank can be an absolute lifesaver, ensuring your devices are always juiced up.

This is particularly important if you rely on your phone for maps, transportation, or emergency calls. Brands like Anker and Mophie offer reliable portable chargers that can recharge your phone multiple times before needing to be recharged.

person holding a morphie travel charging bank
Image Courtesy of Chris Lynch on Unsplash

Best Travel Accessories If You Like Extra Comfort & Luxury

Carry-On Bag With USB Ports

If you value extra comfort and convenience while traveling, a carry-on bag with built-in USB ports can be a game-changer.

You won't need to scrounge for outlets at overcrowded airports anymore. Now, you can simply plug your phone or tablet into your carry-on suitcase while you're on the move.

These bags often come with various compartments that help you keep your travel essentials organized, which means less stress and a more enjoyable journey overall. Brands like Away and Travelpro offer stylish and functional options with this feature.

Talk about

Neck Pillows

A quality neck pillow can make all the difference between a miserable long haul flight and arriving at your destination rested and ready to explore. That's why it's slowly become one of my air travel essentials...

But it wasn't always!

I used to think these were a gimmick. Back in the day they were basic and uncomfortable. Now there are options that offer proper neck and shoulder support, memory foam cushioning, and even built-in massagers.

Brands like Cabeau and Trtl offer innovative designs for travel pillows that focus on providing maximum comfort. I'm personally a fan of Cabeau's memory foam neck pillow!

Cabeauneck pillow
Image Courtesy of Amazon

Travel Credit Card

I know this is an unconventional "travel must have," but hear me out!

If you appreciate the finer things in life, a specialized travel credit card can add a layer of luxury to your trips.

Many travel credit cards include free checked bags, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges where you can enjoy free snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Not to mention the points or miles that can be redeemed for future travels.

Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve in the US or American Express Platinum internationally are popular among comfort-seeking travelers.

Start Packing for Your Next Trip!

Each of us has our own packing style and lists. But, most of us can agree that a few essential travel items that'll help every type of traveler have a worry-free vacation.

From effective emergency kits to weather-appropriate clothing or sleeping masks, bringing these travel necessities on your trip will guarantee you don't miss out on anything and keep yourself organized and safe!

Plus, depending on the type of traveling you're doing, now you have even more travel must have ideas.

Now planning is vital to all things travel. From packing to itineraries—a good plan goes a long way! Using a trip-planning app is a great way to leave the days of stressful travel far behind you.

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Disclosure: Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Camila Wanderley Blogs
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Camila Wanderley
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