Do's List â
â Laundry Bag
A laundry bag is a simple but essential item for keeping your dirty clothes organised. It helps store your clothes separately before washing and prevents them from getting mixed up with othersâ in shared laundry spaces. Plus, it makes washing your clothes much easier, ensuring you donât lose anything in the machine. Itâs a practical, space-saving way to keep your belongings tidy and hassle-free during your trip.
â Neck Pillow
A neck pillow is a total game-changer for long journeys. I honestly wouldnât have survived without mine! Whether on a plane, bus, or train, it provides much-needed support for your neck and helps you get some rest during travel. Itâs lightweight, easy to pack, and makes a huge difference in comfort, allowing you to arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed and less sore. Itâs a small investment that really enhances your travel experience.
â Microfibre Towels (X2)
Microfibre towels are a must-pack, especially when traveling light. I always bring twoâone for the shower and one for the beach. Theyâre small, lightweight, and quick-drying, making them super convenient for any destination. Plus, they take up almost no space in your bag, so you can carry them without worrying about bulk. Whether drying off after a shower or lounging by the water, microfibre towels are a practical, space-saving essential.
â Wire Rope Locks (X2)
Wire rope locks are a smart addition to your travel gear, offering versatility and security. I always bring two, as theyâre easy to use for locking up different itemsâwhether it's a backpack, suitcase, or even a locker at a hostel. The flexible wire allows you to secure various shapes and sizes, giving you peace of mind in knowing your belongings are safe, especially in shared spaces. Lightweight and compact, they take up little room but provide added security wherever you go.
â Lockable Carabiners (X2)
Lockable carabiners are handy for keeping your gear organised while traveling. I always pack twoâtheyâre perfect for attaching items to your bag, securing things together, or even hanging items like towels or water bottles. The lock feature ensures your belongings stay secure, preventing them from falling off or getting lost. Lightweight and easy to use, theyâre a simple but effective way to stay organized and make your travel routine smoother.
â Laundry Detergent Sheets
Laundry detergent sheets are an essential travel item! They donât take up much space and are super convenient, especially since most accommodations donât provide cleaning products. They save you money by eliminating the need to buy detergent from stores or the accommodation, and theyâre easy to pack without the risk of spills. Whether washing clothes in a hostel or a hotel, these compact sheets make doing laundry on the go simple and hassle-free.
â Cross-Body Bag
A cross-body bag is my go-to for travel, as I find it much more comfortable and feasible than a fanny pack. It keeps my hands free while offering plenty of pockets for organization. I feel it provides easier access to my essentials without having to take it off, and the security of wearing it close to my body is reassuring, especially in crowded places. While no bag is completely pickpocket-proof, I find a cross-body bag offers a great balance of convenience, comfort, and practicality for everyday travel.
â Tote Bag
A tote bag is a versatile and practical item to bring on your travels. I use it for day trips, grocery shopping, or carrying extra items on travel days. Itâs lightweight, easy to fold up, and adds extra storage space when you need it without taking up much room in your main luggage. Whether you're exploring a city, picking up snacks, or organizing your travel gear, a tote bag is a simple yet essential addition to your packing list.
â Card Game
A pack of cards is a great travel companion! Itâs perfect for passing the time during long waits or journeys, and itâs a fun way to make friends at hostels or cafes. Iâve used mine countless times to unwind or socialize with fellow travelers, and itâs a simple, lightweight item that provides endless entertainment. Whether youâre playing solo or with a group, a card game is an easy and enjoyable way to add some fun to your trip.
â Vomit Bags
Vomit bags are a travel essential, especially if you suffer from motion sicknessâor even if you donât! Some boat or plane rides can get unexpectedly bumpy, and having a bag on hand can save you from an uncomfortable situation. They're also a lifesaver for those brutal hangovers after a night out. Compact and easy to carry, theyâre simple items that can provide peace of mind during any rough ride.
Don'ts List â
â Travel Journal
A travel journal is definitely a personal preference and a bit controversial for some. While many people love documenting their adventures the old-fashioned way, I opted to do most of my journaling on my phone and online. Itâs more convenient, allows for quicker updates, and takes up less space. Plus, digital documentation makes it easy to share photos and memories instantly. For me, itâs about choosing what works best for how I like to capture my travel experiences.
â Fanny Pack
The fanny pack is a bit of a controversial item for travellers, but personally, I found my cross-body bag far more comfortable and practical. Fanny packs tend to offer less space for storage, and I never quite understood the hype around the Uniqlo fanny pack, especially when it felt less secure and harder to access than my cross-body option. For me, having a bag that distributes weight comfortably and offers more room for essentials made all the difference. Itâs all about what works best for you, but the cross-body bag won out in my case.
â Sleeping Bag Liner
A sleeping bag liner is one of those items I never found the need for. I booked accommodations with sheets, checked the reviews to make sure they were provided, and was always set. It took up unnecessary space in my bag, and I never encountered a situation where I needed it. If you're staying in hostels or hotels where bedding is provided, a liner might not be worth packingâsaving you space and weight for more important items.
â Dry Bag
A dry bag is one of those items I never ended up needing. Despite the common advice to bring one for water-related activities, I rarely encountered situations where I needed to keep my gear dry. Most of my accommodations provided safe storage, and I was careful with my belongings in more water-prone environments. If you're not doing a lot of water sports or trekking in wet conditions, a dry bag might not be worth the extra space in your pack.