20 Must-Have Travel Items to Add to Your Packing List
Discover the essential items that can transform your travel experience. This comprehensive guide, featuring insights from seasoned travelers and experts, reveals the must-have items for your next adventure. From practical tools to comfort enhancers, these recommendations will help you pack smarter and travel with confidence.
- Pack a Mobile WiFi Solution
- Always Bring a Swimsuit for Opportunities
- Carry a Multitool for Unexpected Situations
- Secure Travel Insurance for Peace
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
- Pack Painter’s Tape for Versatile Use
- Take a Book for Entertainment
- Bring a Compact Power Strip
- Pack a Toothbrush for Oral Hygiene
- Carry a Universal Travel Adapter
- Use a Portable Doorstop Alarm
- Bring a Scented Candle for Comfort
- Always Carry Hand Sanitizer While Traveling
- Use a Travel Budget Planner
- Pack a High-Quality Eye Mask
- Bring a Quick-Dry Camping Towel
- Maintain a Positive Attitude While Traveling
- Carry a Power Bank for Connectivity
- Pack a Notebook for Inspiration
- Bring a Packable Duffle for Souvenirs
Pack a Mobile WiFi Solution
My husband and I were digital nomads for years. After living and working in multiple countries, there’s one thing we ALWAYS pack, no matter where we’re going – and that’s a way to guarantee our own WiFi.
It might sound basic, but after enough last-minute scrambles and unreliable connections, we learned you can’t take internet access for granted, especially when you need it the most. Now, we either use our smartphones as mobile hotspots or bring a dedicated mobile WiFi device, which has allowed us to stay flexible and connected.
Carey Bentley
CEO, Lifehack Method
Always Bring a Swimsuit for Opportunities
No matter where I’m headed, I always pack a swimsuit–it’s a non-negotiable travel rule for me. You’d be surprised how often unexpected opportunities to swim pop up, whether it’s a rooftop hotel pool in a city, a hidden hot spring in the mountains, or an impromptu beach stop on a road trip. Even if I’m not going somewhere tropical, many places have spas, saunas, or hot tubs that I’d hate to miss out on. A swimsuit takes up almost no space in my bag, but not having one when I need it is always a regret. It’s a small thing that keeps me ready for anything–because you never know when you’ll find water worth jumping into.
Evan McCarthy
President and CEO, SportingSmiles
Carry a Multitool for Unexpected Situations
Honestly, if you ever catch me packing for a trip without my lucky multitool, send help. I mean it. I have used that thing for everything, from fixing a flat bike tire in the middle of Snowdonia to cracking open a stubborn bottle of ale on a beach in Devon. I might as well call it the best £30 I ever spent. It is one of those chunky Swiss Army deals, weighs about 200 grams, and has saved my skin more times than I care to count.
The thing is, travel always throws something unexpected at you. Zipper breaks? Multitool. Loose screw on your camera? Multitool. Forgotten corkscrew? Guess what. To be fair, it is not fancy or flashy. It is battered and scratched and has stories ground into every edge. Right tool, right time, every time.
James McNally
Managing Director, SDVH [Self Drive Vehicle Hire]
Secure Travel Insurance for Peace
One essential item that I always pack for any trip, regardless of the destination, is travel insurance. Travel insurance provides protection against unexpected events such as canceled flights, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, it can save you from costly and unforeseen circumstances.
From my experience, I have seen travelers faced with medical emergencies in foreign countries where they did not have proper coverage. This can result in exorbitant medical bills and added stress during an already difficult situation. With travel insurance, these expenses are covered and you can focus on getting the necessary treatment without worrying about the financial burden.
Additionally, some travel insurance policies also offer coverage for trip cancellations or delays due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters or strikes. This can be especially helpful if you have invested a significant amount of money in your trip and cannot afford to lose it due to unexpected events.
Evan Tunis
President, Florida Healthcare Insurance
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
At first glance, a reusable water bottle may seem like an insignificant item to pack. However, it has proven to be an essential companion on all my trips. Firstly, it eliminates the need to constantly purchase bottled water, which not only saves money but also reduces plastic waste. As someone who is passionate about sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint, this is a crucial factor for me.
But beyond its eco-friendly benefits, a reusable water bottle has also proved to be extremely practical while traveling. It can be filled up at any water source, whether it’s a public drinking fountain or a natural spring. This has been especially convenient on long hikes or during hot summer days when staying hydrated is crucial.
Erica Nunley
Founder & CEO, Nunley Home Buyers
Pack Painter’s Tape for Versatile Use
One essential I always pack — no matter if it’s a beach trip, business trip, or a quick weekend away — is a small roll of painter’s tape.
It may sound weird at first, but hear me out: painter’s tape is one of those MacGyver-level tools that’s endlessly useful when you’re away from home. I use it to seal half-eaten snack bags, label random chargers that otherwise vanish into a sea of black cables, fix hems or buttons that pop off at the worst time, and even child-proof sharp corners in Airbnb rentals. It’s strong enough to hold but won’t damage surfaces or fabrics when you peel it off. Plus, it weighs practically nothing and doesn’t trigger any airport security drama.
Most people think of travel essentials as big, impressive items like noise-canceling headphones or some magic compression cube. But honestly? It’s the tiny, seemingly boring, Swiss-army-knife items like painter’s tape that save your sanity when you’re in an unfamiliar place. It’s my secret travel MVP — and once you start packing it, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it.
Derek Pankaew
CEO & Founder, Listening.com
Take a Book for Entertainment
One essential item that always finds its way into my luggage is a good book. It’s the perfect companion during long flights or while lounging by the beach. A book doesn’t just kill time; it immerses me in different worlds and ideas, making any waiting period a chance to learn something new or escape into another life. Even during those unexpected delays or moments of solitude, having a book with me turns these situations into opportunities for adventure or reflection.
Furthermore, the right book can double as a travel guide, giving insight into the culture and history of a new place, or it can simply be a comforting touch of familiarity in unfamiliar surroundings. No matter where I’m headed, packing a book ensures that I have a trusty friend along for the ride, making every journey richer and a bit more enlightening. It’s a simple way to ensure that every trip is packed with potential.
Alex Cornici
Writer, Insuranks
Bring a Compact Power Strip
One essential item I always bring when I travel is a compact power strip with multiple USB ports. This handy gadget has become my lifesaver on the road. I often find that hotels, airports, and busy cafes have few power outlets available. With my own power strip, I can easily charge multiple devices simultaneously and avoid worrying about low battery life. This helpful tool helps me stay efficient and connected, especially during demanding work trips when it’s essential to remain charged and ready for tasks.
Naima Ch
Marketing Head and SEO Specialist, Morse Code Translator
Pack a Toothbrush for Oral Hygiene
I always pack a toothbrush with me wherever I go. I don’t like the feeling of plaque on my teeth or having bad breath. Whether I am going out for a meal, meeting a friend, or actually staying the night somewhere, I need to have my toothbrush for this reason.
Scott Clyburn
Founder and Director, North Avenue Education
Carry a Universal Travel Adapter
An essential item we always pack, regardless of the destination, is a universal travel adapter.
This is an international plug designed to be compatible with sockets all around the world. All you have to do is click the right socket type, and it pops out, ready to be used.
You never know when you are going to end up in a hotel where the adapters are different or if you forgot to look in advance if the country uses a different adapter than your daily one.
It’s a very budget-friendly travel hack, so you don’t have to think about the country-specific socket types.
We find it really important to stay connected at all times, in case there is an emergency, for navigation purposes, or to work. Having a universal adapter decreases the risk of being in a situation where you have to run around a city you just started exploring to look for the right adapter.
It makes travel stress-free knowing that we will always be equipped with the right chargers for our electronic devices, and we leave it in our backpacks so even at the airport there is nothing to worry about!
Laura Bernazano
Expert Travel Blogger, Lost Between Oceans
Use a Portable Doorstop Alarm
One item I never leave home without is a portable doorstop alarm. It’s a small wedge I slip under the door that emits a loud siren if anyone tries to open it. I’ve used it in remote Scottish cottages and busy city Airbnbs to guarantee privacy and prevent any unexpected entry. No batteries are needed; it’s purely mechanical, so it’s always ready. It’s tiny enough to fit in a pocket but gives me real peace of mind that my belongings are protected and I can sleep soundly.
Hamza Malik
Marketing Executive, Hire A Minibus With Driver
Bring a Scented Candle for Comfort
After years spent packing and moving – both logistically for clients at LAXcar and myself – the one thing I bring everywhere, regardless of the destination, has been a small scented candle. For someone who habitually flies through airports and handles logistics back-to-back, that small ritual is grounding.
It may sound strange, but when you’re hopping between hotel rooms, airports, and event spaces, your sense of comfort and routine quickly disappears. Lighting a comforting scent – something grounded and soothing like sandalwood or cedar – makes even the most ordinary hotel room instantly feel like home. It helps me unwind after a long day, concentrate when I need to get some work done, and, to be honest, it really takes me to a better headspace.
Arsen Misakyan
CEO and Founder, LAXcar
Always Carry Hand Sanitizer While Traveling
One essential item I always pack for any trip, no matter the destination, is hand sanitizer. I’m not a germaphobe by any means, but I’ve found myself in far too many situations–rest stops, airports, street food stands–where access to clean water and soap just wasn’t an option. Over time, it’s become a small but crucial part of how I stay healthy and comfortable on the road. Whether I’m shaking hands at a business meeting or grabbing a quick snack between stops, having hand sanitizer on me gives me peace of mind. It’s a simple habit that’s saved me from more than a few uncomfortable situations, and now I never travel without it.
Dave Lavinsky
President, PlanPros
Use a Travel Budget Planner
I always make sure to pack my travel budget planner for every trip, no matter where I am headed. This essential item is important because it helps me stay organized and on top of my finances while traveling.
From experience, I have learned that sticking to a budget while on vacation can be challenging. With so many tempting activities and souvenirs, it’s easy to overspend and come back home with an empty wallet. That’s why having a travel budget planner is crucial for me.
Not only does it help me plan out how much money I need for the trip, but it also allows me to track my expenses and make adjustments when necessary. By keeping a record of my spending, I can identify where I may be overspending and make changes to stay within budget.
One tip that I have found useful is to research the average costs of food, transportation, and activities at my travel destination. This allows me to create a realistic budget and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Additionally, I always leave some room in my budget for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Patrick McDermott
Executive Vice President, Max Cash
Pack a High-Quality Eye Mask
One essential item I never travel without is a high-quality eye mask.
It might seem like a small thing, but to me, it feels like a luxury to sleep well–especially on the move. Living in San Miguel de Allende, it’s common to travel to Mexico City on one of the overnight luxury buses. They’re comfortable, yes–but nothing compares to being able to fully disconnect, block out the world, and actually rest.
That eye mask has become a small act of self-care that makes every trip feel just a little more grounded and intentional. Whether I’m headed to a meeting, a flight, or a last-minute legal errand, arriving rested gives me a head start.
Never underestimate the power of good sleep–especially when you’re building something bold.
Kimberly Kubalek
CEO/Founder, Mexico Newcomers
Bring a Quick-Dry Camping Towel
No matter the destination, I always recommend bringing a quick-dry camping towel because of its versatility. Whether heading to the beach for a swim, stopping to enjoy a beautiful view, relaxing with a picnic, or just in need of an extra layer because it’s chilly at night (like when you’re enjoying the stars on a luxury river cruise ship deck!), that towel always comes in handy. It packs up really small, so it’s easy to toss in my day bag or put away in my suitcase until I need it again. It’s the perfect mix of practical and cozy.
Cassidy Newman
Senior Marketing Manager, Pandaw
Maintain a Positive Attitude While Traveling
It’s a cliché for a reason: the right attitude.
Yes, I have a specific travel backpack (that I invented) and a few things that are always with me (a hat for my bald head), but really, when you get down to it, the only things you really need after a passport and sufficient funds are a good attitude.
If you can’t adapt, go with the flow, enjoy the little things, and go out into the world with hope and wonder, why do adventurous travel?
Making connections and having authentic travel experiences need the right attitude more than any specific piece of gear. (But if you want to talk about gear, I can do that all day!)
Tys Sniffen
Founder, Idea Mountain
Carry a Power Bank for Connectivity
One essential item I always pack, regardless of the destination, is a power bank. It’s a must to ensure I can keep my phone charged for things like navigation, staying connected, and, of course, accessing Aitherapy.
Traveling can be unpredictable, and having my phone powered up means I can always tap into resources I need—whether that’s finding my way, checking in with Aitherapy for a quick mental reset, or simply staying on top of things. It’s about making sure I can stay grounded and keep my well-being in check, no matter where I am.
Ali Yilmaz
Founder& CEO, Aitherapy
Pack a Notebook for Inspiration
I always pack a notebook with me. Perhaps it’s a writer’s trait, but I never know when I’ll need it. An idea might come to me while I’m away. I might want to empty my mind. I might be at the beach, feeling inspired by nature, and have an urge to write a poem. Often, I don’t end up using it at all. However, just knowing I have a trusted notebook with me means I can write down any ideas or thoughts I have. It also means I can note down anything important that I need to remember. I know I have my phone to write notes, but having a notebook for a specific purpose is just something I love to do.
Again, I don’t always end up using it, but it’s good to know that I have one on hand for long journeys. And I never know when it’ll come in handy!
For example, I went to Pakistan a few years ago, and in my notebook, I sat with my grandfather and planned out our family tree. I went to Wales just last week and almost left without a notebook. When I quickly managed to find one and pop it in my bag, I felt so much better. I don’t even remember if I used it or not, but having it with me gave me the reassurance I needed.
I think the main reason why it’s so important is in case I get bored during long journeys.
Humaira Iqbal
Freelance Writer, Haych Writes
Bring a Packable Duffle for Souvenirs
As an avid traveler, there’s one item I never leave home without: a packable duffle. Inevitably, I end up picking up special finds on my trips, from a bottle of olive oil from California, home decor treasures, gifts for friends, or new pieces for my wardrobe, and my suitcase never has quite enough space. Packing a lightweight, foldable duffle has saved me countless times from scrambling to buy an extra suitcase at the last minute. It folds down to a compact 3×5-inch pouch that tucks neatly into my luggage, and when needed, expands to the size of a personal item or small carry-on. It’s durable enough to be checked, has survived many flights, and doubles as an extra tote bag when I’m on the go. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference for seamless travel.
Jessica Camerata
Owner, an indigo day
