Granted, your approach to packing should be tailor fit to the trip you are planning. Obviously, a week at a resort in Tahiti will require different items than backpacking Iceland, and you can find our downloadable (and editable) packing list by signing up HERE. That said, there are a packing essentials that I almost always make sure to bring (with a few exceptions, of course). Below is my ongoing list of items I almost always include when I travel.
Inexpensive Polarized Sunglasses
Yeah, I would love to say that I am responsible enough to hold on to my sunglasses. Fact of the matter is, I don’t think I have ever not lost or damaged a pair every time I have traveled (mostly by air). This can get expensive when the pair you are constantly losing are Ray Bans or Maui Jim’s. My solution? I added a pair of MEETSUN polarized sunglasses to my packing essentials.
They might not be quite as UV protective as a more expensive brand (though, if that is the case, I cannot really tell, they do a hell of a job) but they are inexpensive, sturdy and come in many styles. So, not I have a pair of expensive Ray Bans that do not leave my car, and accompany on all road trips, AND I have a $15 pair of MEETSUNs that come with me anywhere I fly. They also supposedly come with a lifetime warranty, though I have never needed to use it. You can find them HERE.
Foldable Garment Bag
This is admittedly one of the most recent additions to my repertoire, but I would be lying if I said it was not a game changer for me. I like to travel on the cheap and that means careful consideration of luggage. In this day and age, luggage can almost cost the price of another airline ticket, if not played carefully. Most airlines will allow one free carry-on and one free personal item, and for the most of my life I would bring just that. My carry-on would consist of just about a week’s worth of clothing, shoved in, with a pair of shoes if I am lucky.
As I recently discovered, I can fit a week’s worth of clothing in a garment bag, including belts and shoes, as well as some small non-clothing related items PLUS not have to worry about major wrinkling PLUS a much easier carry through an airport and when I arrive wherever I am arriving, everything is already on hangers, so gone are the days of digging through my luggage day after day.
I bought this one HERE. The fabric is a bit flimsy, but it has held up to 20+ trips already and the low cost makes it a must have.
Portable Charger/Power Bank
When packing essentials, this is s must have. You do not want to be caught in an unknown city without your phone. This is a great addition to the day pack or to a waist pack, but make sure you bring it with you anytime you are out and about. You can grab one HERE.
Waist Pack
Yes, I know what you’re thinking, and no, I am not calling it that. This thing has become a staple for me. Say what you will, but on days of long walking or hiking, it sure beats having to undo my daypack or dig into my pockets for every little thing. This one is also water resistant, which is extremely handy. One note I would make, is that if you are in a location where petty crime is a consideration (do your research!), keep this completely out of sight (or keep your valuables elsewhere…and out of sight). A bit of spending cash, lip protection, sunscreen, portable charger, airpods, power bars and gum…you get the picture. Grab it HERE
Neck Pillow
Whether by plane, train or automobile, can’t go anywhere without my neck pillow. So helpful on long (and not so long) travels. The cinch bag ties nicely to your daypack so you won’t have to find additional space for it. You can find it HERE.
