45 Travel Essentials (That You May Forget to Pack)

I’ve traveled to over a dozen countries and in this guide, I’ll walk you through all of the travel essentials you’ll need for your upcoming trip. 

Deciding what to pack can be one of the trickiest parts of travel planning. You don’t want to overpack, but traveling unprepared is just as stressful. Fortunately, my ultimate checklist will help you reach your destination ready and confident! 

I share useful items like an adapter and portable charger, plus items you probably haven’t considered before, like a luggage scale, portable door lock, and multi-purpose wash. All of these essentials were selected to save you time, money, and hassle—and several are intended to keep you safe. Trust me, you won’t find a more comprehensive list anywhere else!

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Travel Packing Checklist

Adapter

Every traveler needs one quality, universal plug adapter. An adapter that can charge multiple devices at once is also important. This EPICKA universal adapter is a great choice because it covers over 150 countries and can charge up to six devices at once. It also has USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and an AC socket. I’ve used mine for years and it’s never failed me.

Portable Charger

A battery bank is a travel necessity no matter where you’re going. Having a fully charged phone is not only important for taking pictures, but for general safety, too. This Miady portable charger has quick-charging capabilities and it can charge multiple devices at once.

Packing Cubes

A quality set of packing cubes is one of the most important travel essentials for your carry-on bag or checked luggage. This is because packing cubes help free up luggage space while keeping things organized in the process. 

This Peak Design packing cube comes in medium and small sizes. I personally use and love these packing cubes because they’re expandable and compressible. Plus, they have an additional zippered pocket on the outside, which I use to separate my clean and dirty laundry when I’m on the go. 

Travel Backpack

A travel backpack is one of the top travel items I’d recommend. This Osprey Daylite bag is the perfect size for an everyday daypack. It’s a Travel Lemming favorite and highly rated among travelers in general. 

This daypack is secure and comfortable whether you’re hiking through a national park or traipsing through city streets. It also works as a personal item on planes!

Small Travel Bag

A small bag like this Fjallraven hip bag is essential when traveling. It’s the perfect size for necessities like your phone, wallet, and passport.

You can comfortably wear it across your waist or chest. It’s secure because it sits in front of you, but gives you easy access and allows you to be hands-free. I especially recommend this type of bag in airports and for city travel.

Digital Luggage Scale

Using a portable luggage scale is a simple way to avoid any overweight baggage fees at the airport. You can easily and accurately weigh your luggage with a digital one like this Etekcity luggage scale. This simple pack hacker can save so much hassle.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a travel game changer, especially on a long flight. These Sony wireless headphones are what I use and I can’t travel without them. They’re comfortable to wear and really block out sounds like noisy jet engines and traffic.

E-Reader

Packing smart is all about packing items that are lightweight, versatile, and won’t take up more space than they need to. A Kindle Paperwhite is a fantastic travel companion if you’re a big reader.

They’re light and packable, and you can store thousands of books on them. These eReaders also have a long battery life and are easy on the eyes.

Neck Pillow

A comfortable neck pillow is a must on long-haul flights. It may seem like an unimportant item since you only really need it in-flight, but trust me, it can make a huge difference in how you travel.

This trtl neck pillow has a different design than most. It provides customizable shoulder and neck support while also being light and easy to carry.

Dirty Laundry Bag

A little organization goes a long way while you’re traveling. And keeping your dirty and clean clothes separate with a dirty laundry bag like this one makes life easier. It’s easy to clip on or throw into your travel bag, and there’s even a pocket to store detergent. 

Shoe Organizer Bags

Let’s face it: shoes just aren’t clean. So, it’s a good idea to keep them separate from your clothes when you’re packing. These YAMIU travel shoe bags are a great option because they come in a couple of different sizes for different types of shoes. They’re durable, waterproof, and can be easily cleaned.

Organized Toiletry Bag

Having a spacious and organized toiletry bag is key when you don’t have too much space in your carry-on bag or luggage. It’s also important to find one that really works for you and your routine. This Sea to Summit toiletry bag is great for different types of travelers. It can be hung up and has a few different pockets for organization. 

Cord Organizer

These days, there are so many cords and chargers to keep up with. This can become a hassle when traveling, but it doesn’t need to be. A cord organizer is a brilliant solution. This FYY electronic organizer is perfect because you can fit and organize chargers from multiple devices.

Travel Blanket + Pillow Set

They really know how to crank up the air conditioning on planes. And those complimentary pillow and blanket sets aren’t exactly the best. If you relate, this EverSnug blanket + pillow set may be a great solution. When you’re not using it, it folds up into a carrying case that can be easily clipped onto your bag or slid onto luggage handles.

Multi-Purpose Wash

This is something I won’t travel without. A multi-purpose wash like this Sea to Summit Wilderness Wash is a brilliant solution for cleaning things like dishes and laundry on the go. A little goes a long way. It can even be used as body wash! (I haven’t tested this personally, but I’m sure it works if you’re in a pinch). 

Quick Dry Towel

Towels are bulky to pack and many hostels charge fees to borrow one. So, a quick dry towel is ideal, especially for solo travel and backpacking trips. I use this REI towel and would recommend it to others. It’s quick-drying, super easy to pack since it folds up small, and it still holds up after years of having it.

Minimalist Wallet

Simple is the name of the game when traveling, and a minimalist travel wallet is just that. This slim Travelambo wallet is a great travel companion because it fits all the essentials. It’s also RFID-protected, which is so important when you’re traveling through busy hubs. You can easily fit it in a belt bag since it’s so slim, or even a hidden pocket so it stays secure.

Personal Security Alarm 

Taking safety precautions is really important, especially if you’re a solo female traveler. A personal security alarm is handy to have because it’s small but sets off an ear-piercing sound if you press it in an emergency. It’s not a perfect solution, but it can help give you peace of mind. This Kosin alarm is a great choice.

Portable Door Lock

Using a portable door lock is another safety precaution you can take if you’re staying in a hotel room or private room. Portable door locks are exactly what they sound like, and they provide an extra lock layer on hinged doors. This Addalock is highly rated and easy to use. It’s also small so you can store it in your carry-on luggage easily.

Travel Jewelry Box

Don’t leave out jewelry when you’re organizing all your essentials! A travel jewelry box is super handy because it keeps everything organized and tangle-free. It also keeps your jewelry together in case you want to lock it away in a safe. This plush jewelry box is super cute and has compartments for everything. It also comes in a smaller version.

Travel Pill Box 

Keep all of your medications in one place with a travel pill box. This daily pill organizer has multiple compartments and can be labeled with numbers, names, and days of the week. It’s sleek, small, and a much simpler solution than storing medication in plastic bags.

Reusable Bag

You never know when you might find a souvenir you love, or need to pick up something extra at the store. This is exactly why you should always keep a foldable, reusable bag on hand. These ChicoBags are great because they’re small and can be clipped onto anything. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is super important for staying healthy and feeling good while you travel. This is why you should keep a reusable water bottle on hand. This Nomader collapsible water bottle is great for travel because it’s leakproof and can be easily folded up when it’s not in use. Say goodbye to all those plastic water bottles!

Travel Bottles for Liquids

Every traveler needs a high-quality set of travel bottles for liquids. Opt for ones that won’t leak, and can be used time after time.

These humangear GoToobs are highly rated and the perfect size for carry-on travel. They come in a pack of three and can be easily labeled so you know what’s what. If bottles won’t work for you, try travel capsules like these instead.

Apple AirTags

A lot of people, myself included, get anxious about checking bags. It’s nerve-wracking to think about airlines losing or misplacing your luggage. Apple AirTags are the perfect solution for this. On your next trip, toss one into each of your checked pieces of luggage and you’ll be able to track them when you reach your final destination.

Sleep Mask

A sleep mask can make a huge difference in the amount of rest you get while traveling. But you’ll want a comfortable one you’ll actually use. This Mavogel eye mask is light blocking, soft, and has customizable wear. A sleep mask is a little thing, but it can help you fall asleep anywhere you need to.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a travel must-have for just about anywhere, but especially sunnier destinations. I like Sun Bum sunscreen because frankly, it just works. It doesn’t leave you with that white, cakey look and it’s moisturizing. My only complaint is that it doesn’t come in a small travel size. 

👉 Pro Tip: Try packing a sunscreen stick instead if you’re flying with a carry-on bag and are worried about liquid allowance. 

Organized Laptop Case

An organized laptop bag should be on your list of essential travel items, especially if you’re a digital nomad. Having one case to store your laptop, mouse, notes, and other items makes it easy to truly “work from anywhere.” The Ytonet laptop case has all the pockets, padding, and protection you need. 

Underwater Phone Case

An underwater phone case is a must if you plan on capturing some moments beneath the sea… or lake, I suppose. You’ll need one that’s truly sealed and waterproof, and this Hiearcool phone pouch does the trick. It has thousands of positive reviews. 

It’s definitely important to remember if you are packing for Mexico or another tropical destination where you’re likely to be spending a lot of time in or on the water.

Carabiner Clips 

Just because your carry-on bag is full doesn’t mean it can’t hold anything else. Enter, carabiner clips! With these, you can easily clip things like water bottles, neck pillows, shoes, and other items onto the outside of your bag. It’s a great way to save time and storage in a pinch. 

Wet Wipes

Travel can make you feel dirty. It’s just a fact. You can easily freshen up on the go by carrying some Wet Wipes, though. You can use them as overall body wipes and to clean up other messes. They come in handy and are one of my top essentials when camping or on a long-haul flight.

Disinfectant Wipes

Things may not be as clean as you hope when you’re on a plane or in a hostel or hotel room. Keeping disinfectant wipes on hand helps you make sure they are. Use these to clean surfaces and to avoid picking up germs while you travel. It’s a basic travel item, but it can keep you from getting sick!

Travel Clothesline

A travel clothesline is super useful for longer trips. It’s a small thing you can easily pack, and it can be hung up in a hotel room, hostel, or out in the woods. Just wash your clothes on the go and hang them up to dry on this Coghlan’s bungee clothesline.  

Phone Mount

Using your GPS is obvious when you’re driving in an unfamiliar place. Use a phone mount like this Qifutan one for safety, convenience, and to easily see your route on the GPS. It’s such an overlooked item, but it’s one of those essentials that can make life easier.

Luggage Tags

Get extra peace of mind by simply adding luggage tags to your bags. A luggage tag can help airport or accommodation employees identify your items in the event of a lost or misplaced bag. It’s not a guaranteed method, but luggage tags like these Travelon tags can help.

Bluetooth Transmitter

You may want to snag a headphone jack like this Twelve South AirFly Pro if you, like most people, use wireless headphones. It allows you to easily pair your headphones to an airplane’s screen. This way, you can enjoy in-flight entertainment from the comfort of your own device.

Iodine Tablets

Staying hydrated is important no matter the destination. You’ve got to be prepared, especially if you’re in a country that doesn’t have safe drinking water. You can add these Iodine tablets to kill bacteria in water if you need to. 

Luggage Cup Holder

It’s annoying to have to carry a snack or a drink on top of your travel bags at the airport. A luggage cup holder can really come in handy, especially if you’re traveling solo or with kids. You can slip it onto the handles of any rolling suitcase. With it, you can easily carry drinks, as well as boarding passes and other items you need easy access to.

Other Travel Essentials to Pack

• Sunglasses + case
• Travel/luggage locks
• Lotion
• Ear plugs
• Travel sewing kit
• Travel umbrella
• First aid kit
• Face masks
• Hand sanitizer
• Makeup remover wipes
• Contact lens case
• Travel toothbrush
• Travel-sized razor
• Journal
• Pen
• Motion sickness medicine
• Anti-diarrheal medicine
• Travel tripod
• Snacks
• Buckled luggage strap
• Bug spray
• Fabric refresher/wrinkle release
• Extra pouches/bags (for miscellaneous things)
• Soap leaves

Clothing to Pack for Travel

The key to packing clothing for travel is that less is more, and to prioritize quality over quantity. Ideally, everything you pack should be tried and tested. This way, you know the clothing you’re bringing is comfortable and you’ll actually wear it. 

Versatility is another major factor to consider. Pack versatile layers and bring clothes that can easily be mixed and matched.

So what clothing should you pack for travel? Here is a quick clothing checklist for travel: 

• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 4-6 tops
• 2-3 pairs of pants
• 1 versatile jacket 
• 1 sweater 
• 1-2 dresses/dressier shirts
• 1-2 swimsuits
• 1 ball cap or sunhat
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 pair of versatile sneakers
• 1 pair of water shoes
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 5-6 pairs of socks
• 1 beach coverup
• 1 pair of slippers
• 2-3 pairs of shoes

Now that we’ve gone over the basic clothing checklist, the following clothing items are some of the most important things to pack for travel. They’ll help make your travel experience simpler and more comfortable. 

Versatile Sneakers

A good pair of comfortable and durable sneakers will be one of your most important things to pack. This is because uncomfortable shoes can make or break a trip. 

Merrell has tons of high-quality sneakers for different types of trips and style preferences, from hiking boots to city sneakers. Plus, you don’t need to bring several pairs when you have one really good one.

Compression Socks

Long-haul flights have you sitting for long periods, which can cause swelling and poor blood circulation in your legs. Compression socks help with this because they boost circulation and can improve blood flow.

Wearing compression socks like these Physix Gear Sport ones are great for folks with circulation problems. Although, other adults can benefit, too. 

Versatile Jacket

You can’t control the weather, but you can be prepared with a versatile jacket! The key is to choose a jacket that’s comfortable, provides ample warmth, and keeps out whatever element you’re facing. For some, this might be the cold; for others, it might be rain. REI has some great travel jackets for both men and women. 

Merino Wool Clothing 

Let me put you onto something great: Merino wool. This type of wool is a lot finer and softer than normal wool. It’s naturally moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and just super soft. It’s also really thin! Smartwool makes awesome Merino wool clothing products that are sure to up your travel game. I’ve had a Merino wool zip up for over a decade and it’s still in great shape! 

👉 Pro Tip: To keep Merino wool clothing looking its best, wash it on a gentle cycle. Then, tumble dry on low heat or lay flat to dry.

Darn Tough Socks

Quality socks are a must, especially if you’re doing a lot of walking or packing for a hiking trip. They need to be able to last a long time and keep your feet comfortable. Darn Tough socks are about as good as they get. They’re a little pricier, but they’re temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking. They also have a lifetime guarantee. 

Travel Wrap/Scarf

A lot of travel destinations have social rules about covering up. Travel also means dealing with varying temperatures. A versatile travel wrap/scarf like this Happyluxe Wayfarer shawl is perfect for covering up when you need to and also staying warm on planes and when you’re out and about.

Flip Flops

Flip-flops are a travel essential at the beach, when using hostel showers, and in other situations. These Old Navy flip-flops are affordable, easy to pack, and can double as slippers. You can also leave them behind if you need to free up extra space on the way home. 

Travel Packing Tips

Choose the Right Travel Bag

Choosing to bring a rolling suitcase vs. a travel backpack for your carry-on bag will depend on what your destination is and how you’re traveling. Be realistic and use a bag that best suits your trip. This will then impact how and what you choose to pack.

And don’t forget your packing cubes! Utilizing packing cubes could prevent travel disasters. Take it from fellow TL Writer Claudicet – her bag broke at the airport, and she had to repack a new luggage at the check-in counter!

Know Your Laundry Options

Look up laundry options before your trip. Many hotels offer laundry services at an additional cost.

You may have to hand wash or hit up local laundromats if you’re traveling on a budget. Pack prepared if this is the case. Bring items like laundry detergent or multi-purpose wash and a travel clothesline.

Pack Good Shoes

Here’s what you need to know about shoes and travel: quality over quantity. Pack good walking shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in. The last thing you want is to have an amazing experience ruined by blistering, achy feet.

I recommend bringing two pairs of shoes so you can alternate. However, this could vary with different types of trips.

Roll and Fold Your Clothes in Your Packing Cubes

Most travel guides out there will tell you that rolling your clothes is key. It sort of is. The best way to pack your clothes is to roll and fold them, depending on the type of clothing item. Play around with this before your trip, and arrange your clothes in a way that best fits into your packing cubes.

Pack a Capsule Wardrobe 

I know—you’ve probably heard “capsule wardrobe” a million times online. But that’s because it’s a game changer, especially if you love fashion and are prone to overpacking (like me). 

Basically, a capsule wardrobe is a paired down selection of staple clothing items. Things that can all be mixed and matched and are reliable in terms of comfort and durability. A capsule wardrobe generally includes neutral colors. 

For my capsule travel wardrobe, I like to pack neutrals like black and white as well as tried and true colors like blue and red, and materials like denim. Packing items that can also be layered on top of one another is important, too. 

Wear Your Bulky Clothing Items While You Travel

Wear your bulky items like boots, hats, and jackets in transit, rather than packing them. This can help free up so much space in your bag and packing cubes. 

Don’t Overpack 

Trust me, I know this is easier said than done. My advice is to lay out all the clothing items you’re thinking of bringing and remove 1-3 items from each stack. For example, decide to take out two shirts and one pair of pants. This is smart packing, but also helpful for leaving space for what you’ll likely buy. 

For tips of the essentials to bring, see our weekend packing list.

Consider Bringing Clothes to Leave Behind

Bringing clothes to leave behind can be useful in some cases. Consider this if you’re staying with a friend or know you’ll be able to swap items with fellow travelers. It can sometimes be smart to bring basic clothing items that you wouldn’t mind swapping out new items for. But only do this if you really need the space as you don’t want to be wasteful.. 

Consider Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is one of those essentials that is often forgotten. VisitorsCoverage is a Travel Lemming favorite for comparing travel insurance policies, but be sure to do your own research.

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I hope this article gave you new packing ideas or served as a reminder for almost forgotten items! Bookmark this list whether you’re going on a solo trip or any other type of adventure. 

Read More of Our Destination Packing Lists:

• Europe Packing List
• Disney Packing List
• Puerto Rico Packing List
• Spain Packing List
• Portugal Packing List
• Japan Packing List
• Ireland Packing List
• Mexico Packing List