The Best Travel Essentials
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I love travelling to new places, I definitely caught the travel bug! If you are looking for the best travel essentials you are in the right place.
I travel a lot, whether it’s for discovering new countries or travelling for work. These are my go-to items for weekend breaks and holidays when I’m escaping my day job.
Electronics
Electronics are essential when travelling now, as we live in a digital world. We want to take the best photos and make sure our phones stay charged, especially as everything we need is on them — from boarding passes to maps. Here are some of my electronic essentials:
Power Bank
Power bank is an absolute must for me, especially on long travel days or when using Google Maps all day for sight setting. I can never travel without one now.
Travel Adapter
One universal adapter saves so much space, and means I don’t have to panic-buy one at the airport and you can use it for every trip. Another great hack is bringing an extension lead if a few of you are sharing a room.
Chargers
I keep all my chargers in one small pouch so they’re easy to grab in my hand luggage, especially when charging my phone with a power bank. It also keeps everything organised and stops cables getting tangled at the bottom of my bag.
Disposable camera
Disposable cameras are becoming more popular as the photos always come out great. I love taking one on trips for fun, nostalgic photos — it’s a nice break from being on your phone and it’s so fun to see the photos a couple of weeks later once developed.
Cameras/GoPro
Perfect for hiking and water activities. I love using it on active trips where getting my phone out isn’t practical or safe.
This is the GoPro we have and highly recommend!
Packing
If you’re like me and only travel with hand luggage, getting your packing right is essential — especially if you want to avoid extra fees. The items below have made packing for trips so much easier.
Packing cubes
Packing cubes are a game changer for staying organised — especially for short trips and carry-on only travel. You will be surprised at how much stuff you can get into packing cubes. I first used them in 2017 and have never looked back.
Travel Ryanair hand luggage size bag
You can get a travel hand luggage/cabin bag on Amazon for around £20-30 and it’s ideal for budget airlines. Try to make sure your bag fits under the seat to avoid extra fees
Travel Pillow
A travel pillow is essential for long-haul flights and early morning departures. I have seen people fill them with clothes as well haha! I have never tried but what a funny great hack.
Backpack
I always bring a backpack, even when I’ve booked luggage, especially for trips involving hiking or sightseeing. It’s perfect for carrying snacks, water, and extra layers throughout the day.
Uniqlo Cross bodybag
I bought a uniqlo cross body bag couple of years ago and honestly it was the best purchase. It can fit so much stuff in, and I always use it for trips away as it’s perfect for keeping valuables close while exploring!
Miscellaneous
These are the small items but often overlooked, that I’ve learned to always pack!
They don’t take up much space, but they make a huge difference to comfort, sleep, and overall enjoyment while away.
Games
We always bring a small travel-size Ludo or card game when we’re away. They’re perfect for flights, train journeys, quiet evenings, or while enjoying a drink. The games have even saved us during delays! They’re also great for trips where Wi-Fi is unreliable or when you just want to switch off.
Books
I couldn’t travel without a book and I love having a physical book for flights and relaxing & chill time. It’s something I consistently reach for when travelling.
Earplugs
I don’t tend to use earplugs so much but they are a must-have for my partner, if you want to sleep whilst travelling on planes/trains and if you are staying in noisy hotels or hostels and city centres.
Eyemask
Eye masks are great for early mornings, long-haul flights, or hotels without blackout curtains.
Snacks
Snacks are always essential. I always plan to have snacks for travel days, delays, or long journeys. This has saved me money and stress more times than I can remember, no one wants to be hangry!
Toiletries
Toiletries might seem like a small part of packing, but having the right ones can make a big difference when travelling. Mini toiletries are a must for me, especially when travelling with hand luggage only. They make airport security easier, save space, and mean I can still bring all my essentials without overpacking.
Face SPF
Face SPF is my go to as it’s essential all year round, not just summer trips! I always use Bondi sands SPF.
Suncream
Always check the UV and weather when packing for a trip as I’ve learned the hard way that long days exploring can quickly catch you out.
Hand sanitiser
Hand sanitiser is always in my day bag — especially when travelling after public transport, attractions, or food markets.
Mosquito Repellent / Inspect spray
Every trip I always get bitten by mosquitoes, if you are like me then you will need decent inspect spray! Essential for warmer destinations and evening walks/hikes.
First Aid
It’s better to be safe than sorry! I carry plasters, blister patches, painkillers, and antihistamines. These have been a lifesaver on so many trips for me!
Reusable clear toiletry bag
Makes airport security quicker and keeps everything organised in my hand luggage.
Clothes & Shoes
You will always need to pack the essentials, but planning outfits and not packing stuff that you know you won’t wear is always a good idea!
Comfy Shoes – Walking Boots or Trail Runners
On any type of trip, you will always need comfortable footwear, it’s a non-negotiable for me, especially for city breaks and hikes.
Raincoat
A raincoat is always an essential especially for hiking trips or if the weather is not as you want it for your trip!
Hat
A hat is great for protecting you from the sun and is also useful for colder destinations, helping keep you warm on chilly days.
Read here for more travel tips for getting the best out of your travels!