An A to Z List of Travel Essentials

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or heading out on your very first trip, there will inevitably be something you forget (or almost forget…) to pack. Whether it be a jumper for my flight, my toothbrush, or even my passport (we’ve all done that before, right?) something always slips my mind whilst I’m packing for my next adventure.

So here’s my handy A-Z guide of every travel essential you will need for your next adventure!

Adapters

Always check before you set off you have the correct adapter for the country you are visiting! There’s nothing worse than having to buy one at the airport which is twice the price!

Backpack

Obvious, I know. But I’m on about a small backpack you can use as a day-bag when you’re out and about exploring. It’s a great option for keeping your stuff safe whilst also out of the way!

Cash/Cheques/Cards

Money makes the world go round. And you’re not gonna get far if you don’t have some dosh. Whether you use straight cash, travellers cheques, or credit/debit cards, make sure you have enough money to last you the whole trip!

Document Wallet

I got one of these for my birthday a couple of years back and it has been an absolute life-saver. Having one handy place where I can keep my tickets, visas, passport etc. makes everything so much smoother when you’re going through security or immigration! And it also means you can pop it in a safe if you have one in your hostel/hotel room.

Emergency Contact

This is another thing which can go in your document wallet! Having a name, number and address written down somewhere is one the best things you can do. It means that if you’re ever in an accident or for whatever reason cannot call your emergency contact yourself, someone else can simply pick up the details and contact them for you. Most passports will have an emergency contact page either at the front or back!

Flip-flops

Oh my days. If you’re in a hostel – or even a hotel room – you don’t know who’s walked over those floors. Especially the showers. Just take a cheap pair of flip-flops with you for when you shower or need to use the bathroom facilities! Then you can bin them at the end of your trip!

Gum

If you have chewing gum, everyone will be your friend. Okay, maybe not everyone. But I am always one of those people who is constantly asking if anyone has any chewing gum, and if someone says yes – I’ll love them forever.

Headphones

What is life without music? That is the question. Headphones are great for flights, noisy hostel rooms, or if you’re just wanting to sit and watch some Netflix while you’re eating tea.

Imodium

We all have to go to the toilet. And sometimes when you’re travelling, eating different foods, in different climates, your tummy can get a little stressed out. Imodium is a medication used to prevent or decrease the frequency of diarrhoea (gross, I know – and I’m sorry for bringing it up…) and it’s just a great idea to have a pack in your first aid kit or toiletry bag – just in case.

Jabs

If you’re travelling to a foreign country, make sure you check your Government or Health Service website to find out if you need a jab. In the UK, you can make a doctor’s appointment with your local GP and they can tell you if you need a jab – and more often than not they can give you your vaccine straight away if they have it in stock.

Kindle

An avid reader? Then a kindle is for you my friend!

Lock

Locks can be used for your day-bag, your suitcase, your locker at your hostel or even to secure your bike! Make sure you pack a couple!

Medicines

Paracetamol, Imodium, antihistamines. Whatever you might need, make sure you pack them. You don’t have to take the entire chemist with you – but just make sure you have some basic essentials with you.

Nail-clippers

Something so small, but so vital. I completely forgot to pack these when I went to New Zealand for 10 weeks – and boy is it surprising how much your nails can grow!

On-the-go Detergent

Don’t have a laundry room in your hostel? On a tight budget? Taking on-the-go laundry detergent means you can hand wash your clothes in the sink to keep them fresher for longer.

Pac-a-mac

Any light-weight foldable jacket is perfect for your suitcase. If you’re heading to a hot country and don’t want to take a bulky coat or jacket, this is a perfect solution for if you wan’t to avoid getting wet!

Quick-drying Towels

Micro-fibre towels are the best thing since sliced bread. They’re quick-drying, and most of them are anti-bacterial too! Perfect for if you’re staying in a hostel!

Repellent

Insect repellent is a must, especially if you’re heading to a country with mosquitos!

Shawl

Whether it’s for lying on the beach, keeping your arms warm on a chilly evening, or used for adhering to clothing restrictions in religious and cultural buildings, a shawl is a fantastic option for space-saving!

Travel Pillow

I mean, does anyone need any persuasion to pack a pillow? It means you can sleep anywhere and you can wake up with no neck pain!

UV Protection

Sun-tan lotion and after-sun are so important! Even if you’re heading to a relatively chilly country, don’t underestimate the power of the sun. You could even just take a travel size bottle if you don’t think you’ll need too much of it. Better to be safe than sorry!

Visas

Again, head to your Government website to find out if you need a Visa to visit the country you’re heading to! You don’t want to get to immigration and discover you need a Visa!

Wet-Wipes

Whether it’s for wiping your hands, cleaning the tray-tables on an aeroplane, or getting the sand off your feet after you’ve visited the beach, wet-wipes come in handy.

Xtra Socks

Yes, I cheated a bit. But extra socks is always useful, and I’d recommend keeping a pair in your day-bag/carry on bag! You never know when you might need them!

Yoghurt

I mean, don’t pack this in your suitcase. But yoghurt is a great thing to have if you have a funny stomach after eating local food. Plus it tastes nice…

Zip-Lock Bags

Zip-Lock Bags are perfect for making sure your toiletries don’t leak in your suitcase!

I hope this list helps you to pack all those essential items you need for your next adventure!

Charley x