Are you in need of a list of the ultimate travel essentials you’ll ACTUALLY use? I’ve got you covered!
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Traveling is exciting, but nothing ruins a trip faster than realizing you forgot something important — or worse, packing a bag full of items you never even touch.
I’m so guilty of packing so many things I don’t need – but then forgetting some important things I do!
After years of traveling solo, with friends, or with family.. I’ve learned exactly which travel essentials are actually worth the space in your luggage. And I actually keep a checklist on hand at all times for when I’m about to head off on a trip!
Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or a long-haul trip abroad, here are the ultimate travel essentials you’ll actually use every time.
Check out my post: How to Pack a Carry On Bag to Make Your Flight So Much Better!
This post is all about the ultimate travel essentials you’ll actually use!
Ultimate Travel Essentials:
1. A Durable Carry-On Bag
Having a good carry-on is so essential to good travel!
I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again – I do love to check a bag. It’s nice to not have much to carry around the airport.
Nashville, where I’m from, has a great airport that is usually super quick to travel through – but at some airports, it can add a lot of extra time on if you have to check a bag.
If you’ve got a great carry-on on it can be a huge lifesaver!
If I’m traveling with carry-ons only, I will typically take one wheeled case and one backpack. The two pictured above are my go tos.
Here’s a great one on Amazon that is pretty similar and has TONS of compartments for good storage:
2. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are such a lifesaver!
They help save so much space, but also really help in staying organized.
If I’m staying somewher,e I don’t have drawers to unpack into my clothes, which quickly becomes a mess from rummaging through everything trying to find the top I’m looking for.
These cubes help me stay neat even in the most compact of living spaces!
3. Portable Charger (Power Bank)
The last thing anyone wants is to have a dead phone while they are traveling.
If you’re on flights, trains, or just exploring all day, you’ll want your phone in case of emergencies for directions, or even tickets you may have saved.
Even though airports tend to have charging stations, it’s also just easier to know you can sit anywhere to charge and not have to try to find a place with a plug.
Here’s the one I love. It is magnetic and just attaches to the back of your phone!
4. Passport Holder and Wallet
It’s always nice to have a holder to keep track of all your essential things.
It keeps everything safe, but also makes it easy to reach and get to.
I personally love this one I found on Etsy that you can customize and has an AirTag holder!
(I’m notorious for losing my things, so this is perfect for me!!) Click here to buy.
5. Reusable Water Bottle (Preferably Collapsible!)
Staying hydrated during your travels can be pretty difficult, but having a reusable water bottle helps so much!
So many places have water fountains you can fill up at.
I like to use a collapsible so it doesn’t take up much space in your bag!
Pro-tip: Also a great way to save money at the airport! Bring your empty bottle, and fill it up at a water station or restaurant once inside!
Here’s one of my favorites:
6. Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs
Airplanes can get loud. Sometimes there are crying babies, sometimes you end up sitting next to some loud talkers – you just never know what you may run into loundness level wise.
My all time favorite headphones are my Beats. They are amazing at noise cancellation and the sound quality is top notch!
7. Travel-Sized Toiletry Bottles
If you don’t want to have to continue buying travel sized toiletries everytime you fly, I love getting these reusable bottle you can fill up with your normal soap, shampoo, condintioner, etc.
8. First Aid & Wellness Kit
While I don’t like to travel with something that will take up a lot of space – having a few essential first-aid type items is perfect.
A small pouch with the basics can save you mid-trip:
- Band-Aids
- Pain relievers
- Hand sanitizer
- Motion sickness pills
- Emergen-C or electrolyte packets
You can also just get a big one and take out a couple each trip to put in a separate little bag! (That’s what I do!
9. Hanging Toiletries Bag
Sometimes you just don’t have enough counter space.
Especially if you are traveling with other people you have to share a bathroom with.
I love my hanging toiletries bag because it keeps the clutter away!
10. A Good Day Bag
If you plan on having fun filled packed days, having a good bag to cary your belongings is perfect!
You can keep your wallet, phone, portable charger, collapsable water bottle, etc!
Why do I love these travel essentials?
All of these make traveling SO much easier! There’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot something.
I hope this list helps you make sure you have everything you need to have the perfect travel experience!
✨ Pro tip: Create a “go bag” with these essentials so you’re always ready for your next adventure. It saves a lot of time when packing!
Other posts you might like:
The Best Airport Hacks: How to Elevate Your Airport Experience
11 Must Have Amazon Travel Finds That Will Make Your Life So Much Easier!
The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation
This post was all about the ultimate travel essentials!
