10 Travel Items You Didn’t Know You Needed
When traveling abroad, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference. Having the right items at the right time can help you feel more comfortable, prepared, and save you time, money, and stress. After almost two years of traveling the world, I’ve learned the value of packing smart. Here are the travel essentials that have saved me time and time again.
Best for eco-conscious travelers and multi-use convenience.
Ever tried walking 15 minutes from the grocery store with flimsy plastic bags that decide to fall apart halfway home? On my first week in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, that’s exactly what happened. My produce scattered across the street, and I vowed never again.
Reusable bags aren’t just more eco-friendly—they’re sturdier, reliable, and incredibly versatile. They double as toiletry bags, laundry holders, and can even be hung off bunk beds in hostels to organize your things. Plus, they fold up so small you’ll barely notice them in your backpack.
Pro Tip: Choose bags with strong, comfortable handles. Bonus points for waterproof material!
Best for hostels, hikes, and impromptu beach trips.
Hostel without towels? Long hike in the rainy season? This item has saved me more times than I can count. Quick-dry towels are lightweight, super absorbent, and fast to dry, which makes them perfect for travel.
They can also multitask—I’ve used mine as a privacy curtain in dorm rooms, a blanket during chilly overnight bus rides, and even a picnic mat in a park.
Pro Tip: Choose a towel that packs into a small pouch. Microfiber options dry even faster than regular quick-dry towels.
Best for day trips and unexpected adventures.
A day pack quickly became one of my favorite travel items. After breaking two flimsy cloth bags on day hikes (and suffering sore shoulders from carrying my laptop), I knew I needed a better option. My current day pack folds small enough to fit in my backpack but is large enough to carry everything I need—whether it’s hiking snacks, a jacket, or my laptop for a workday at a coworking space.
One memorable moment? Hiking near Iguazu Falls, I got drenched walking by the Devil’s Throat. Thanks to my water-resistant pack, my clothes and essentials stayed dry.
Pro Tip: Look for a pack with adjustable straps and water resistance to handle both city and nature adventures.
Best for multi-country trips.
There are 15 types of electrical outlets worldwide. If you’re visiting multiple countries, a universal charger can save you from the hassle (and expense) of buying new adapters everywhere you go.
Having one on hand also means you can power up your phone the moment you land—whether you need to contact your accommodation or navigate a new city.
Pro Tip: Get a charger with USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.
Best for security-conscious travelers.
If you’re staying in hostels, a mini-lock is essential for securing your belongings in shared lockers. But even if you prefer hotels or Airbnbs, a small lock can still come in handy. For example, I’ve used mine to lock my backpack in lockers before tours or to secure my suitcase in less-than-reliable storage rooms.
Pro Tip: Look for a lock with a flexible cable so it can fit a variety of locker sizes and zipper configurations or opt for a metal lock to secure against potential theft with wire cutters.
Best for night hikes, early flights, and shared spaces.
From sneaking into a shared camp without waking everyone up to finding my way through a dark trail before sunrise, a headlamp has proven invaluable. It’s hands-free and far more practical than a phone flashlight, especially if your hands are full.
One of my favorite features is the red light mode. It casts a soft glow that won’t disturb others—perfect for hostel dorms, late-night flights, or campsites.
Pro Tip: Keep extra batteries or a rechargeable option on hand.
Best for light sleepers and travelers that need to sleep in noisy places (i.e. the airport, campgrounds, dorms, planes, and buses)
I never thought I’d need ear plugs until I found myself in an Airbnb across from an all-night jazz club. Since then, I’ve encountered stressed-out chihuahuas during an overnight stay at an airport, snoring roommates, and the occasional party hostel. Ear plugs have saved my sleep (and sanity) more times than I can count.
Pro Tip: Try silicone ear plugs—they’re more comfortable and block out a wider range of noise.
Best for travelers in high-theft areas or major celebrations
Big cities like Barcelona, Mexico City, and London are known for pickpocketing and phone theft. Attending large events such as Carnival in Brazil or any EDM festival, can also put your mobile at risk. No matter how careful you are, distractions happen, and suddenly your phone is gone. That’s why carrying a backup phone can be a lifesaver. It gives you peace of mind knowing you have a second option for navigation, communication, and emergencies.
Pro Tip: Load your backup phone with offline maps, key contacts, and travel apps before you leave home.
Best for solo travelers and digital nomads.
Your phone is your lifeline—especially when you’re traveling solo. The last thing you need is a dead battery in an unfamiliar city. I always carry a backup charger, and it’s come in handy on long-haul flights, in hostels with limited outlets, and during citywide blackouts.
Pro Tip: Check your charger’s capacity and recharge it regularly. Aim for one that can fully charge your phone at least twice.
Best for quick fixes and wardrobe emergencies.
A travel sewing kit might seem like an old-school item, but trust me, it’s a lifesaver. From replacing a lost button before an important meeting to patching up a torn backpack strap mid-trip, a small sewing kit has come in clutch more times than I expected. It’s especially helpful in places where finding a tailor might be difficult or time-consuming.
Even beyond repairs, I’ve used mine to modify clothes I bought at local markets, making sure they fit just right. It’s lightweight, takes up almost no space, and can save you from having to buy new clothes in a pinch.
Pro Tip: Include safety pins and a few extra buttons in your kit for added versatility.
Conclusion
Travel is full of surprises—both good and bad—but being prepared with the right gear can make all the difference. From reusable bags that keep your groceries intact to a battery charger that ensures you’re never stranded without a phone, these items are designed to simplify your journey. With these essentials in your bag, you’ll be ready for anything the road throws your way. Safe travels!
