11 Travel Essentials I Actually Bring
There are a million “travel essentials” lists online, but most of them are either way too long or full of things you probably don’t need.
These are the things I actually think are worth packing because they make the trip easier, more comfortable, or less stressful.
1. Passport + Travel Documents
Start with the obvious.
Passport, ID, visa information if needed, travel insurance details, and any important reservation information should be easy to access.
I also keep digital copies of important documents somewhere secure in case I lose something while traveling.
💡 SHANE’S TIP
Before an international trip, check your passport expiration date early. Some countries require several months of validity beyond your travel dates.
2. Portable Charger
This is non-negotiable for me.
Between Google Maps, photos, videos, boarding passes, Ubers, restaurant searches, and everything else, your phone battery can disappear fast.
A good portable charger can save you from being stranded with 3% battery in a city you barely know.
3. Universal Travel Adapter
If I’m leaving the country, this goes straight in the bag.
I prefer one adapter that works across multiple regions and has USB and USB-C ports so I’m not carrying a bunch of separate blocks.
Just make sure the adapter is actually compatible with the destination you’re visiting.
4. Good Headphones
Flights, lounges, trains, long Uber rides. I use headphones constantly when I travel.
Noise cancellation is especially worth it on longer flights.
This is one of those things where I personally think spending a little more can genuinely improve the travel day.
5. Reusable Water Bottle
Flights are dehydrating, and buying bottled water everywhere adds up.
I usually bring an empty reusable bottle through security and fill it afterward.
If I’m going somewhere where tap water quality is questionable, I’ll adjust accordingly.
6. Comfortable Walking Shoes
Do not let the outfit fool you into ruining your feet on Day 1.
I love looking good when I travel, but if I know I’m about to walk 15,000–20,000 steps, I need shoes that can actually handle it.
Bring the cute shoes too. Just know when to wear them.
7. A Small Travel Pharmacy
I don’t mean bring your entire medicine cabinet.
But I do like having a few basics with me so I’m not hunting for a pharmacy when I already feel terrible.
Think pain reliever, allergy medication, stomach medication, bandages, and whatever personal medications you normally use.
Keep prescription medication in its original packaging when required and check destination rules before traveling internationally.
8. Packing Cubes
I used to think packing cubes were unnecessary.
Then I started using them.
Now I get it.
They keep clothes organized, make unpacking easier, and save me from digging through my entire suitcase every time I need one shirt.
Compression cubes can be especially useful if you tend to overpack.
9. AirTag or Luggage Tracker
This one gives me peace of mind.
I keep a tracker in checked luggage so I can see where my bag is, especially during connections.
It doesn’t replace the airline’s baggage system, but it gives me another layer of visibility if something goes wrong.
10. Sleep Kit
For longer flights, I want:
eye mask
neck pillow if I need it
earplugs
lip balm
and something warm
Airplanes can get cold, dry, and uncomfortable real quick.
If I’m trying to sleep, I want to give myself the best chance possible.
11. A Tote or Personal Item That Actually Works
Your personal item can either make your airport day easier or annoy you for eight straight hours.
I want something that fits under the seat, has enough structure to stay organized, and can hold my laptop, headphones, charger, passport, snacks, and whatever else I need during the flight.
This is also why I care so much about a good travel tote. It should look good, but it also needs to actually work.
A Few Things I Don’t Think Everyone Needs
There are plenty of travel products that get labeled “essential” when they really aren’t.
You probably don’t need a dozen gadgets, a separate organizer for every single item you own, or random accessories just because TikTok told you to buy them.
If it doesn’t make the trip easier, more comfortable, safer, or more organized, I’m probably leaving it at home.
The Bottom Line
The best travel essentials are the things you actually use.
I’d rather pack 10 things that make the trip better than 30 things that just take up space.
Pack smart. Leave room in the suitcase.
You might need it on the way home.