Essential Travel Gear: The Top 10 Must-Haves

Packing is an essential part of any travel experience. Whether headed to a beach condominium or going on an Alaskan cruise, bringing appropriate clothing and travel gear is crucial. Here are ten travel essentials to include on any trip.

01. Wheeled Suitcase / Backpack / Duffel Bag

Wheeled luggage has revolutionized travel. Consequently, no more backaches and strained muscles are necessary! Today, suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags with attached wheels are available, making transporting luggage easy, if not entirely effortless. If planning to hike or walk over rough surfaces, consider purchasing a wheeled backpack or duffel bag to carry as needed.

02. Daypack / Tote Bag

While exploring, having a convenient way to carry maps, snacks, and water is essential. Therefore, keep your heavy wheeled bag in your hotel room and pack daily essentials in a daypack or tote. Daypacks may not be as stylish as tote bags, but they distribute the weight of your items more comfortably across your back and shoulders. For those with back, neck, or shoulder issues, a daypack might be the better choice.

03. Comfortable Shoes

It’s best to leave high heels and beach sandals at home—unless you are visiting the beach. Therefore, pack shoes you can truly walk in. Remember to break them in before your trip begins, as blisters can ruin a perfectly plotted vacation.

04. Personal Toiletries / Medications / Glasses

These essential items differ from person to person. If traveling by air and packing toiletries in your carry-on, bring small, three-ounce (100 milliliter) bottles of liquids and gels. Bring your medications in their original prescription bottles, instead of a weekly pill organizer. If you usually use a pill organizer, pack it empty and fill it up upon arrival. Don’t forget your glasses, especially if unsure whether contact lens solution will be available at your destination.

05. Money Belt

It’s vital to remain cautious—pickpockets can be quick and efficient, relieving you of your money and passport before you realize it. Therefore, invest in a money belt and use it wherever you go. Save your daypack and purse for items that can be easily replaced, such as maps and water bottles.

06. Rain Gear

All-weather travel becomes bearable with collapsible umbrellas, water-repellent jackets, ponchos, and folding hats. Unless headed to Death Valley, you will likely need one or more of these items.

07. Travel Alarm

Knowing the time and when to wake up is essential, especially while traveling with a tour group. Many individuals utilize the alarm functions on their watches or cell phones. However, others may prefer a small, battery-powered travel alarm clock that is easy to read in the dark.

08. Voltage Converter and Plug Adapters

If traveling overseas and using plug-in appliances or electronic equipment, plug adapters will be necessary. Some items, like hair dryers, travel irons, device chargers, laptops, and cell phones are dual voltage. However, others require a voltage converter.

Verify the label on each item you plan to bring. If it states “Input 100V-240V 50 / 60 Hz,” the item is dual voltage and only requires a plug adapter. If this information is not visible, never connect it directly to a foreign wall outlet. You must utilize a voltage converter to “step down” the 220-volt current; otherwise, the appliance may be destroyed.

09. Map / Guidebook

It’s beneficial to carry guidebooks and domestic maps. Conduct some research on map prices, particularly if traveling overseas. Often, purchasing local maps at your destination is less expensive than buying them at your local bookstore, considering the currency exchange rate. Many tourist information offices provide free maps of popular visitor areas.

Some travelers opt to tear out relevant chapter pages and carry only what they need. This strategy conserves weight, but it can also damage the guidebook. Therefore, try an outing with your daypack, including the entire guidebook, camera, water, and food. If your daypack feels too heavy, consider disassembling the guidebook, leaving most pages at home.

10. Backup Documents

It’s wise to make copies of your passport and ticket receipts, storing them securely in your luggage. If your passport is stolen, having a copy readily available will expedite the replacement process. It’s also beneficial to leave a second copy with a trusted family member back home. Depending on your travel plans, bringing copies of other important documents, such as credit card rental car insurance coverage information, can be prudent. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring phone numbers for your bank, credit card company, and travel agent in case they need to be contacted.