1,034 words, 5 minutes read time.
Let’s be real: I hate packing. I’m the person tossing random stuff in a bag while walking out the door- usually forgetting something and having to run back for it. I like to think I’m organized (and for the most part, I am). Flights? Booked. Hotels? Reserved. Rental car? Done. But it’s always the small things- chargers, toiletries, that one shirt I actually wanted- that trip me up.
Over time, though, I’ve nailed down a list of travel essentials for any trip. These are the things I never leave without. Some make life easier, some add comfort, and a few are absolute must-haves. Here’s what’s always in my bag, whether I’m boarding a flight or hitting the road. (Everything is linked if you want to check it out yourself.)
Travel essentials for any trip: tech
📷 Camera
Top of the list is my Canon R6. It’s one of my favorite possessions. As a photographer, I live for capturing moments- and this camera does it beautifully. I saved for ages to buy it, and it’s worth every penny if you shoot manually and understand things like f-stops and depth of field (don’t worry, I’ll save that for another post).
Even if you’re not ready for a big investment or don’t want a professional camera, don’t sweat it. You can also buy the smaller and beloved Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III. Also pricey, though. And if that is still out of your price range, your smartphone does the trick. I have traveled many times with nothing but my iPhone for the memories. Please don’t put yourself into debt for a camera!
Pro Tip: Use a large-capacity memory card (I use 32GB SD and CF cards). Upload your photos daily to your laptop if you can, because losing your camera mid-trip is bad enough, but losing your memories. Even worse.
Traveling solo and want to still get incredible photos of yourself so you can remember the places you visit? Check out my tried and true options! I have personally done ALL of these options and I have gotten amazing results! Trust me, I am a photographer. ?
🔋Battery Chargers and Power Banks of all varieties
Sounds obvious, right? You’d think. But I forgot mine once and learned the hard way. Luckily, a friend bailed me out, but it’s not a mistake I’ll make twice. Don’t forget your charger.
This one is fantastic because you can charge multiple devices with one block!
Also, grab one of these multi-cords if you want to just carry one cord. This will charge most devices you may have, such as your Kindle, your iPhone, and your MacBook computer!
And don’t forget your very important power banks. Traveling means more map usage, more photos being taken, and more menus being looked up, so your phone battery will drain fast. I cannot say enough things about this incredible power bank. I have used it for several trips, and it has saved my life.
💻 MacBook or Laptop
Phones and tablets are fine, but a laptop is essential for me. I use mine to back up photos, write blog posts, and edit in Photoshop. I also like to wind down at night by writing out the day’s memories—because let’s be honest, travel is fast and packed with moments that are easy to forget.
I will never not shout how much I love Macbook computers. They just LAST! I have a MacBook Air and love it because it is portable but still so usable!
📱 iPhone
I won’t lie- I’m a little too attached to my phone. Social media, emails, TikTok… It’s always in reach. It’s also great for killing time during long flights. That said, I once lived a month without a phone while studying abroad. It’s possible. I just don’t recommend it.
🎧 Airpods Max
I cannot wear the typical AirPods in my ears because they hurt my ears after a few minutes of wear time. I blame my father’s genetics for our tiny ear canals. However, I do love their large AirPods Max.
How did I travel without these before? I have no clue. The sound quality is great, they block out engine noise and crying babies, and the over-the-ear padding is ridiculously soft. Plus, you can get cute little ear covers like these pink ones below!
You don’t need to splurge on these, but having good headphones makes a huge difference, especially if you’re trying to sleep on a flight.
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Travel essentials for any trip: beauty
💄 Chapstick + Simple Makeup
My lips always feel it first when I hit a new climate. I keep a Burt’s Bees Chapstick with me at all times.
But also, I love long-wear lipstick because it makes me look alive when I look like death after a cross-Atlantic flight. This brand is my FAVVVVVV. Seriously, you will need coconut oil to get it off at night, but it is magical.
Travel essentials for any trip: miscellany
📓 Travel Journal
A leather journal of any variety. I use mine to jot down memories, press plants or leaves in between pages, and collect tickets and wine labels. It is definitely one of my most treasured items, and I highly recommend you keep up with one too when you travel!
A belt bag or cross-body bag of some variety that sits on your front. It is hands-free, helps prevent pickpocketing, and is just convenient.
- Waterproof iPhone case for beach or boat days
- Power adaptors and voltage converters for international trips. Yes, you need an adapter for your hair tools, but most electronics are safe.
- Cute luggage tags (because details matter). These ones have airtag holders in them so you can keep track of your items!
What about you? What are your ride-or-die travel essentials? Drop a comment- I’d love to know what makes your list!
xx,
Sami
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The cool aunt. Plant novice who loves to travel to cool places, eat unadventurous food, and take pretty photos.
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