If you’ve followed me at all over the years, you’ll know that travel is one of my ideal way to spend my free time. In fact, it’s the reward I promise myself when planning big tasks! In recent years, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to Greenland, Faroe Islands as well as the more “typical” places like Paris and London.
Seeing new locations can be exhilarating, but being well-prepared can make all the difference. To make your travel experience seamless and enjoyable, it’s vital to have the right travel essentials. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time traveller, here are seven must-have items that will enhance your journey and lighten your load.
1. Airalo Travel eSim: Stay Connected Worldwide
In an era where staying connected is non-negotiable, the Airalo Travel eSim is a revolutionary solution for travellers. This service allows most modern eSim capable phones from installing a data eSim in almost any country in the world! I even used it in Greenland!
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Convenience: No need to swap SIM cards or deal with roaming.
- Cost-Effective: Avoid hefty international roaming charges.
- Coverage: Enjoy internet access almost anywhere globally.
2. Lencent 100W GaN Travel Adapter: The Ultimate Power Companion
Charging your devices while traveling can be a challenge, especially with varying plug types. The Lencent 100W GaN Travel Adapter is the answer, providing a compact travel adapter that ALSO has a built in charger for your phone and laptop! This has significantly slimmed down my tech pouch in terms of weight and bulk.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Compact Design: Lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for your travel bag.
- Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly in 200+ countries.
- Built-in Fast Charging: 75W power output for efficient charging means no need to carry a separate charger for your phone!
3. NordVPN: Protect Your Online Privacy
One of the staples of travel is hunting for free WiFi. These public networks are generally unsecure and can compromise your online security. NordVPN offers a secure and encrypted internet connection, even on public Wi-Fi networks, keeping your data safe from potential threats.
On another note, this also allows you to by pass Geo-blocks so you can access the full Netflix or other streaming libraries so it’s my go to way to watch Rick & Morty in odd countries that don’t allow it.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Security: Shield your sensitive information while traveling.
- Access: Bypass content restrictions and geo-blocks.
- Reliability: A trustworthy companion for secure online browsing.
4. Travel Vacuum Bags: Maximize Luggage Space
I travel with only my carry-on bags and especially if your trip includes colder climates, space can be an issue while carrying warm puffer jackets. These travel vacuum bags are an excellent tool to help you master it but squeezing extra air out from your belongings and maximising space in your luggage. These specific ones do not require a vacuum cleaner to compress them down.
I’ve been known to hastily stuff my clohtes in and roll them down so I can bring back more souvenirs from my trips without checking my bags in.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Space-Saving: Pack more in less space, leaving room for souvenirs.
- Organization: Keep your belongings neat and tidy during your travels.
- Protection: Keep your clothes safe from moisture and odors.
5. Joby Mini Tripod: Capture Perfect Moments
For photography enthusiasts, the Joby Mini Tripod is a compact and versatile accessory. This super compact tripod is ideal for keeping your smartphone steady or you can remove the phone mount and use it for your actual camera. For the size and weight, nothing else comes remotely close: trust me, I’ve tried about 7 different brands on this one!
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Portability: Easily fits into your bag or pocket for spontaneous photography.
- Versatility: Compatible with various devices like smartphones and cameras.
- Stability: Capture shake-free photos and videos wherever you go.
6. Sukin Signature Travel Pack: the perfect amenity kit
Travel can be tiring and quite harsh for your skin. I’m not someone who normally uses skin care products but after 3 back-to-back trips, I had pimples like I was a teenager again! The Sukin Signature Travel Pack provides the perfect solution. This travel-sized skincare kit comes in a clear case and is compliant with airline recommendations so it ensures your skin stays fresh and rejuvenated during your adventures.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Compact Size: Travel-friendly packaging that won’t take up much space in your bag.
- Complete Set: Includes various skincare products for a comprehensive routine.
- Airline compliant: Comes in a clear case and all contents are under 100mL
7. Turtle Tribe Toothpaste Tablets
This is my latest find and it’s a gamechanger! If you’re trying to be a super minimalist and carry NO liquids, then these are a game changer. Essentially pop these tablets in your mouth til they lather up, and brush away! Combine this with a solid deodorant and you have yourself a liquid free amenities kit!
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Portability: Lightweight and space-saving, perfect for travel or backpacking.
- No Liquids: Eliminate the need for bulky toothpaste tubes in your bag.
- Freshness: Enjoy a burst of minty freshness wherever you are.
8. Manta Sleep Mask
Getting quality sleep while traveling can be challenging, but the Manta Sleep Mask makes it easier. This innovative eye mask is designed for 100% light blocking and provides zero pressure on your eyes, ensuring you get the rest you need during your journey.
The first time I put these on, I tried to sleep and thought I had a short nap only to wake up and realise I had slept 5 hours! In cattle class no less! These aren’t cheap, but I reckon they’re absolutely worth it.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Total Darkness: Block out all light for uninterrupted sleep.
- Comfort: No pressure on your eyes, suitable for all sleep positions.
- Adjustable: Customizable fit for all face shapes and sizes.
9. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
The last thing you want on your travels is noisy passengers or crying children while you try and get some sleep. I’ve tried a whole bunch of headphones/earphones and these are the best value for money in both sound quality and noise-cancelling.
If you’re an Apple user, the Airpod Pro might be an option but the Samsung plays nice with almost EVERYTHING and is nearly as good as much more expensive earphones. The added bonus is that the case is so compact, especially compared to over ear headphones. These fit my ears very comfortably and I’ve fallen asleep with these in and some white noise during some very noisy flights.
Key Benefits for Travel:
- Compact and Wireless: Easy to carry and tangle-free for hassle-free travel.
- Immersive Sound: Enjoy high-quality audio during your journey.
- Noise Cancellation: Block out ambient noise for a more peaceful trip.
In conclusion, these seven travel essentials are designed to enhance your travel experience by providing convenience, connectivity, comfort, and care. Most of the recommendations will also save you weight and space in your packing gear, so especially if you travel carry-on only during trips, these might be a game changer!