Traveling the world is the perfect escape for so many of us. Whether it’s our very first trip or our 100th, for two weeks or six months, every time we plan to get on that plane, ship or train, there’s always that feeling of utter exuberance and excitement.
The destination is always in the forefront but the packing and travel to get there can be quite tedious. That’s why smart packing is everything.
To help you out, we’ve put together an awesome list of essentials you’d need to pack for your long travels. You won’t have much to worry about once you follow along!
A Capsule Wardrobe
Heavy packing significantly weighs you down. Especially if you have connecting flights and need to check in at every stop. Trust me when I say you don’t want to be that person lugging three or four suitcases when you’re running to catch your next connection. Traveling light frees you up on cost as well, as some airlines charge a hefty fee per checked bag. Make sure to pre-plan your outfits, take along multi-purpose items and only pack what you need. No extras.
Compression Socks
They’re not the most fashionable but they will save you from days of pain and discomfort. Running around train stations and sitting for hours on end can wreak havoc on your feet. Not to mention, if you plan to do tons of walking while on your trip, you’re going to need them even more. They’re wearable in almost any temperature and provide amazing comfort.
A Good Book
Or at least something to keep you entertained. Some of us can’t sleep in public spaces and need something to keep us occupied while we wait or travel. Books and magazines (especially e-books) are good options and if that’s not your thing, a few episodes of your favorite Netflix series downloaded will do you well. Adult coloring books are strangely therapeutic, and you can find them just about anywhere now. Podcasts are amazing too.
Snacks
Walking with your own snacks is an absolute must when doing long travel. It saves you from having to spend crazy amounts on airport food and if you don’t like what’s being served on your journey, you’re well prepared. It’s also important if you’re a healthy eater or may have dietary restrictions. Make sure to walk with a couple when you’re on your day trip out or visiting tourist sites as well. What a lifesaver they can be when you feel hunger coming on but can’t get to a canteen or food outlet in good time.
Headphones
Almost necessary for any trip. You really don’t want to be hearing your neighbor’s conversation or the crying baby in the back seat when you want to catch a quick nap. The airline will probably give out a few on the plane but if you’re traveling by train or bus, or just waiting in the terminal, you need your own pair. All the better to listen to music, watch a movie or even play your favorite video games without annoying everyone else.
Basic skincare
By no means do you have to take along your entire skincare routine. You need three basic staples and that’s a cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. Maybe a lip balm. Regardless of what else you may take, don’t leave these out. Recycled air when flying really dries out the skin and for sure it’ll need immense moisture in the days to follow. Sunscreen is always a must, traveling or not and you need a good cleanser to take everything off in the evening. Traveling (especially for a long time) with makeup on, gets a big thumbs down due to the damage that makeup mixed with dry recycled air can cause. Clogged pores, extreme dryness, you name it. If you must have makeup on, put on a touch when you’ve landed or reached your destination.
Reusable Water bottle
Traveling by air can be a task as you can’t take much liquids on the plane and you’re left to buy water in the airport shops at exorbitant prices. You can beat that by walking with an empty water bottle and fill up at water fountains. Even if traveling by bus or train, it’s good to have a refillable bottle with you at all times. Saves you some cash.
Medication
This goes without saying. If you have any sort of medical condition, this is the time you’d need your meds within reach. Simply because there’s either no where to get it at that point, or you have to travel far and wide to come across it. Different countries have different laws relating to medication and so you just can’t take the chance. Always have the handy pain killer or allergy medication just in case as well.
Travel Pillow
For you guys who like to take naps during travel, a travel pillow is your best friend. Not everyone likes them but they are quite comfy and unless you’re traveling first class with a fancy headrest, they’ll work wonders and raise your comfort levels way up.
Toiletries
Anything you think you’ll need to stay fresh, you should pack. Remember you’ll be in the same clothes, in and out of sleep for more than just a couple of hours. You’d be sure to spruce up upon landing or just before and some basic items will take you through easily. Things like deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, hand sanitizer and some body spray should suffice. Make sure you obey civil aviation rules (liquids no more than 3 oz etc) so they don’t get tossed at check-in.
Travel Adapters
Depending on where you board or have layovers, you may need an adapter converter to keep your electronics alive. They last a pretty long time so this one time purchase goes a long way.
Sunglasses
Last but definitely not least, a sturdy, trusty pair of sunglasses. Don’t carry your most expensive one if you tend to forget them everywhere, but they’re a must to shade those sleepy, baggy eyes.
Traveling is an awesome experience but it’s pretty taxing if you’re not prepared. Most of these items are daily essentials and won’t take much from you to have them ready when packing for your next trip. What are some of you must haves?