15 Travel essentials to pack for your next adventure

When you're getting ready for a trip, having a solid packing list of travel essentials is key. You don't want to forget something important and end up scrambling at the last minute.

Over the years, I've refined my list of must-have carry-on essentials that make traveling so much easier. From staying organized with packing cubes to getting better sleep with a comfy travel pillow, these are the items I never leave home without. Trust me, a well-packed bag can be a total game-changer.

So before you zip up that suitcase or put that backpack on your shoulders, make sure you've ticked all these 15 travel essentials. Your future self will thank you.

Suggested reading: Why you should embrace the minimalist travel mindset and Your essential backpacking checklist for every trip.

15 Travel essentials for your packing list

1. Travel water bottle

Staying hydrated is so important when you're traveling, especially on long flights. But buying overpriced water bottles at the airport gets old fast. That's why I always pack a reusable travel water bottle in my carry-on essentials.

Look for one that's leak-proof, durable, and insulated to keep your drinks cold or hot for hours. I'm a big fan of stainless steel bottles with a wide mouth for adding ice cubes. Some even come with built-in filters, which is great for refilling on the go.

Not only does bringing your own water bottle save money while traveling, but it's also way better for the environment. Just make sure it's empty before going through security.

2. Copies of important documents

In addition to your physical passport, it's a good idea to have digital copies of important documents like your passport, driver's license, and travel insurance policy. I store these securely on my phone and in a cloud-based storage system. You may also want to leave copies with a trusted friend or family member back home.

I also always pack my documents in a passport holder to keep them protected and organized. Losing your passport is the absolute worst, so this is my highest priority.

3. Passport holder and luggage tags

When you're jet-setting around the globe, a trusty passport holder is your best friend. It not only keeps your passport safe and sound, but also has room for all your other travel must-haves like boarding passes and vaccine cards. Plus, with RFID blocking tech, you can rest easy knowing your personal info is on lockdown.

Luggage tags work like little GPS trackers that help reunite you with your belongings if they wander off. Just make sure to choose tags that won't fall apart mid-journey and have your contact information front and center.

4. Travel adapter and charging cables

There's nothing worse than arriving at your hotel with a dead phone and realizing you forgot your charger. That's why a travel adapter and extra charging cables are one of those travel essential items.

A universal adapter with multiple plug configurations will work in most countries. Look for one with built-in USB ports so you can charge several devices at once. I always pack a few spare cables too, just in case one gets lost or damaged. Long cords are great for hotel rooms with inconveniently placed outlets.

If you're traveling with a lot of electronics, consider bringing a portable power strip as well. That way you can charge everything at once without hogging all the outlets. Trust me, having a fully charged phone and other devices is crucial for navigating new places, staying connected, and capturing all those travel memories.

5. Portable charger or power bank

A portable charger or power bank is a must-have for keeping your devices charged on the go. Look for one with a high capacity (measured in mAh) that can fully charge your phone multiple times.

Some power banks even have built-in cables or wireless charging capabilities for added convenience. Game changer.

6. Medications and first aid kit

Don't forget to pack any prescription medications you take regularly, as well as over-the-counter remedies for common travel ailments like headaches, upset stomach, and motion sickness.

I learned the hard way on a trip to Mexico when I got a brutal case of food poisoning and didn't have any meds with me. Now I always make sure my travel medicine cabinet is well-stocked before any trip. Items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can also come in handy. Better safe than sorry.

7. Comfortable clothing and layers

When selecting clothing to pack in your luggage, prioritize comfort and versatility. Choose items that can be easily layered to accommodate changing temperatures, such as a lightweight jacket or scarf. Opt for breathable, wrinkle-resistant and fast drying fabrics that will still look presentable after hours of travel.

I always make sure I have a cozy sweater or hoodie to throw on during long flights. And don't forget to leave some room for any souvenirs you might pick up on your trip. There's nothing worse than having to cram everything into the overhead compartment on your way home.

8. Packing cubes

If you haven't used packing cubes yet, you're missing out on a travel bag essential. These compact zippered pouches are the ultimate way to keep your luggage organized.

I love using different sizes to categorize my clothes, toiletries, and accessories. No more digging through a jumbled mess to find what I need. Packing cubes make it super easy to pack and unpack quickly. Plus, they help maximize space in your backpack or suitcase by compressing everything down. I usually opt for lightweight, water-resistant cubes that will protect my stuff from any spills or leaks. 

9. Comfortable neck pillow

A good travel pillow is worth its weight in gold for those long flights or bus rides. Trust me, your neck will thank you.

I've tried a lot of different kinds, but my favorite is a memory foam pillow with 360-degree support. It molds perfectly to your head and neck, preventing that awful crick you get from sleeping upright. Look for one with a removable, washable cover too.

10. Eye mask for better sleep

If you struggle to fall asleep on planes or adjust to new time zones, an eye mask is a must-have travel accessory. It's the simplest way to block out light and send a signal to your brain that it's time to rest.

I prefer contoured masks made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or silk. They sit comfortably on your face without putting pressure on your eyes. 

Pair your eye mask with earplugs and the neck pillow, and you'll be snoozing like a baby in no time. No more nodding off and jerking awake every five minutes.

11. Portable door lock

As a frequent solo traveler, safety is always a top priority for me. That's why I never leave home without a portable door lock. This handy little device adds an extra layer of security to any hotel room or hostel locker. It's small enough to slip in your bag but strong enough to prevent unwanted intrusions.

I like the ones made from heavy-duty metal for maximum durability. Having that peace of mind lets me relax and enjoy my trip so much more. Whether I'm camping, staying in a sketchy motel, or a 10+ beds hostel dorm, I know I've got a reliable lock.

12. Travel pouch for essentials

Simplify your in-flight experience by packing a small travel pouch with your carry-on essentials. No more rummaging through your bag for your phone, passport, or lip balm – keep them all together in one convenient place for a stress-free journey.

Say goodbye to the frustration of a cluttered bag. A pouch featuring multiple pockets and a reliable closure, like a zipper or snap button, is the ultimate solution for quick and easy access to your must-haves.

13. Travel-size toiletries

Travel-size toiletries allow you to carry essential personal care items without taking up much space in your luggage. They comply with airline regulations for carry-on liquids, ensuring hassle-free security checks.

Plus, having your favorite products in convenient sizes ensures you can maintain your hygiene routine while on the go.

14. Multi-tool knife

From cutting fruits to tightening screws, a multi-tool knife is handy for a wide range of tasks during travel. It can even serve as a makeshift screwdriver or bottle opener, saving you space and weight by combining multiple tools into one compact package.

Just remember not to pack it on your carry-on luggage or you will lose it as soon as you pass through the X-ray control!

15. Digital luggage scale

Picture this: you're at the airport, ready to embark on your dream vacation, only to find out your luggage is overweight. Ouch. But wait, there's a solution – a digital luggage scale. These handy little tools allow you to weigh your bags in the comfort of your own home, so you can pack smarter and avoid those annoying extra fees.

Simply hook your bag onto the scale and lift - the digital display will show the weight in pounds or kilograms. No more guessing if your luggage is over the weight limit and having to pay those hefty fees at check-in.

By avoiding excess baggage fees, you can save money and hassle, ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Travel better with Worldpackers

A great way to travel more intentionally is by volunteering. These programs open doors to unique opportunities that go beyond the surface level of traditional tourism.

How is that possible? There are thousands of places around the globe looking for volunteers to do a work-exchange, meaning that you can help in a specific local initiative for a few hours a day in return for accommodation, and often food and other perks too. From organic farms and schools to hostels and holistic centers, there is a wide range of possibilities.

Worldpackers offers a safe platform where travelers can find volunteer opportunities across 140+ countries.

Besides traveling on a budget, volunteering programs are a great way to meet like-minded people, learn new skills, travel off the beaten path, and immerse in the local culture!

These experiences of fellow travelers may inspire yo to try it:

• "How I had the best Worldpackers experience in Ecuador"
• "My experience teaching English in Argentina for 2 months"
• "Beyond the glass: eco-volunteering at a winery in Sicily with Worldpackers"
• "How I lived in paradise and landed my dream job through volunteering with Worldpackers"

Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified.