The travel bug has bitten, your itinerary is set, and all that’s left is the packing!
In this guide I’ve put together all the essential travel items that make long or short haul flights a breeze.
To make it easy for you, I have added links to where you can find items in the post.
Some of these links are my affiliate links and I get a commission when you buy through my link at no cost to you – thanks in advance if you like what you see and decide to buy through my links, it is very much appreciated.
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Quick Checklist for your travel
Before You Go:
- Documents:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months after your return)
- Visa (if required)
- Travel insurance documents
- Booking confirmations (flights, accommodation, tours)
- Photocopies of important documents (passport, ID, insurance)
- Finances:
- Credit cards (with international transaction fees checked)
- Debit card (with international withdrawal fees checked)
- Backup cash in local currency (if necessary)
- Essentials:
- Travel adapter (if needed)
- Portable charger
- Universal power bank (optional)
- Headphones
Packing:
- Clothing:
- Versatile clothing suitable for the climate and activities
- Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
- Swimwear (if applicable)
- Pajamas
- Undergarments (enough for the duration of your trip)
- Lightweight jacket or sweater (depending on climate)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Toiletries:
- Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Personal hygiene products
- Medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
- Other:
- First-aid kit
- Water bottle (reusable)
- Snacks (check airline restrictions if flying)
- Entertainment (books, magazines, downloaded movies/shows)
- Travel pillow and eye mask (optional)
- Carry-on backpack or bag for day trips
- Laundry bag
Bonus:
- Language guide (if needed)
- Small notebook and pen
- Reusable shopping bag
- Lock for your luggage
- Travel document organizer
- Deck of cards or travel games
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS ON AMAZON
Noise cancelling Headphones
Traveling can be noisy! Block out the airplane rumble and engine roar with a pair of noise-canceling headphones and Immerse yourself in your favourite music, movie, or audiobook, and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Carry on bag with space for everything! + Charging
This carry on bag has been voted the most spacious carry on ever! Rumour has it that shoes and enough clothes for a 2 week vacation can fit in this. Now the added benefit is that this carry-on bag that has a built-in USB charging port. So you can charge your phone on the go. What’s not to love?
Airplane tray table cover
Airplane tray tables are notorious for harbouring germs. Keep your eating surface clean and sanitized with a disposable airplane tray table cover. Pack a few in your carry-on for peace of mind.
Phone stand
Long flights can mean endless hours of entertainment. Pack a foldable phone stand to keep your phone propped up for hands-free viewing. Catch up on movies, shows, or documentaries, and enjoy the journey.
Mini perfume bottle
Fill them up from your full-size bottles before you leave, and save precious space! They have up to 70 sprays in each one. What’s not to love.
Silicon mini makeup containers
Speaking of space-saving, try using silicone makeup containers for your cosmetics. They’re spill-proof, compact, and perfect for organizing your makeup essentials in your carry-on bag.
Rideable luggage scooter for kids
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but here’s a fun hack: a luggage scooter!
This ingenious invention keeps little ones entertained and engaged while navigating crowded airports. They’ll be zipping through terminals and begging for more (well, maybe not begging!).
Foldable water bottle
Staying hydrated is key, especially on long journeys. Opt for a reusable and foldable water bottle. It saves space, is environmentally friendly, and allows you to refill easily throughout your trip.
Portable Hanging closet
Hate wrinkled clothes? Pack a portable hanging closet organizer. This space-saving solution allows you to unpack and hang your clothes easily, keeping them wrinkle-free and ready to wear.
Luggage scale
Avoid the dreaded “overweight baggage fee” at the airport! Pack a luggage scale and weigh your suitcase before you leave. This simple tool can save you time and money.
Silicon make up pouch
Keep your makeup brushes organized and protected with a silicone makeup pouch. These handy pouches are washable, leak-proof, and perfect for tossing in your carry-on bag.
Luggage strap
Traveling with multiple suitcases can be cumbersome. Pack a luggage strap to secure them together, making them easier to manoeuvre and reducing the risk of losing one in the shuffle.
Carry on with cup holder
Avoid balancing your coffee or water bottle precariously on your tray table. Opt for a carry-on suitcase with a built-in cup holder. This simple feature can save you spills and frustration.
Pillow that transforms into a Blanket
Long flights can leave you feeling stiff and uncomfortable. Pack a pillow that transforms into a blanket. This versatile item provides both neck support and warmth, helping you catch some much-needed sleep on the plane.
Smart Packing cubes
Packing cubes are a game-changer for any traveler. Invest in a set of smart packing cubes to organize your clothes by category. This keeps your suitcase organized and saves you time rummaging through your belongings.
8 set packing CUBES
Washable Reusable lint roller
Keep your clothes looking sharp on the go with a washable and reusable lint roller. This travel essential is perfect for removing lint, pet hair, and other unwanted debris from your clothes.