25 Packing Essentials for Stress-Free Travel

Be Prepared - Travel like a Seasoned Pro

Traveling in general is always exciting. For some though, travel can be a stressful experience and packing for a trip can be a downright panic attack waiting to happen!  The good news is you can usually find great last-minute vacation deals as saving money can relieve some of that stress.

If you’re planning to go somewhere this year or perhaps travel during the holidays (whether to see loved ones or get away from them lol) packing key travel essentials can ensure a smooth trip and help you navigate the mayhem of travel like a seasoned pro.

What do we mean by ‘essentials’?

The motto “Be Prepared” comes to mind when it comes to travel essentials. These items can enhance your trip if you have them or cause inconveniences if you don’t. Obvious items such as your mobile phone or underwear won’t be listed…these essentials are things that you might not think about or remember but will be so happy you have them on hand.

Some essentials may not be as easy to find or replace when traveling, so making sure they are packed is important.  For a stress-free trip any time of year, we’ve assembled this list of 25 essentials that should be part of your travel arsenal.

25 Travel Essentials to Pack for Any Trip

Bags:

• Travel pouch or wallet: Hold passports, credit cards, cash, documents and papers together in a secure part of your luggage.
• Clear plastic toiletries bag: Keep liquids together, making it easier to pass through airport security, and the plastic will protect the rest of your items should a leak happen.
• Packable reusable shopping bag: It’s incredibly compact, and a reusable bag makes shopping while traveling easier. Bonus tip: can also be used a laundry bag

Gadgets/Electronics:

• Noise-canceling headphones: For relaxing and disconnecting from the outside world or listening to music or an audiobook. They come in extra handy on loud flights and busy airports. 
• Electronic reader: Carry dozens of titles no matter how long on one lightweight compact device.
• Laptop computer or tablet: In case something comes up and you have to access your email or do something for work. Finding an internet cafe in the middle of the night is not fun or feasible.
• Power adapter: Avoid the panic of getting to the hotel and realizing you can’t plug in any of your devices.
• Chargers: Without them, your gadgets just take up space and the power adapter is useless!
• GPS locator:  If you are checking a bag or they run out of overhead space, give yourself peace of mind that your luggage is traveling with you and not going on a separate vacation.

Comfort

• Light jacket or sweater: Even if you’re going somewhere hot, odds are the flight will be chilly. Why be uncomfortable?
• Comfortable shoes: Regardless of duration or destination, these are a must. 
• Protein bar: A mealtime delay can be much less stressful if you have a backup for quick and sustainable energy. 
• Refillable water bottle: aside from saving money not having to buy drinks, you can easily take this everywhere with you during your trip. Bonus tip: Save even more space by using a collapsible bottle.
• Inflatable pillow: To help you nap on any plane, train, or automobile ride longer than a half hour.
• Flip-Flops: Not just a beach item, this essential is extremely lightweight and doesn’t take up much room in your bag. A must for walking around the hotel room or anywhere you don’t want to be barefoot.

Protection

• Disinfecting wipes: Provides a germ-free experience in public restrooms or before grabbing that hotel room remote.
• Sanitizing hand gel: Hang a small bottle on a carabiner clip from your bag for those times when there is no soap & water.
• First aid kit: A compact kit is handy when dealing with cuts and scrapes so your adventure can continue uninterrupted. 
• Sunscreen, Sunhat, Sunglasses: Always a good idea to protect your skin from harmful rays, the hat provides a bit of shade, and you’ll want to protect your eyes from sun glaring off the sand, snow, or street.
• Lip Balm w/ SPF: Prevent dry, chapped lips in any type of weather condition.  Can also be used on the nose & cheeks.
• Packable umbrella: A mini-travel umbrella can easily fit in your purse or backpack and offers protection against rain, wind or sun. 

Oh No moments:

• Travel Pack of tissues: Can be used as a napkin or toilet paper if needed.
• Sewing kit with safety pins: Perfect for a temporary fix with no other options.
• Portable laundry stick or detergent sheets: Spill something on your top? No problem if you’ve got one (or both) of these - remove that spot or soak the item in the sink.
• Compact utility tool: There are too many to mention, but we’ve heard high praise for the corkscrew, magnifying glass, and precision scissors. If flying, multitools with knives are not allowed in your carry-on and must be in a checked bag.

Whether you are looking for a luxury getaway, the ultimate family vacation, or a pet friendly hotel – you’ll be sure to find something to inspire your next vacation.  Book now and get packing!