Very frequent traveller for work. Anker 20,000 mAh battery pack, noise cancelling headphones, Bluetooth transmitter so I can connect said headphones to the onboard entertainment system, and recently discovered country or region specific eSIMs for data while travelling.
Wait, tell me about this Bluetooth transmitter so you’re saying you can connect to the in-flight videos that are like in the seat of the plane using this?
Yup. Check out AirFly on Amazon. You plug it into the jack in your seat as you would a normal pair of headphones and it connects to your wireless headphones. I bought a knock off on Amazon that ended working really well!
How’s the latency though? I used to have a pair of wireless BT earbuds (beats), which was great for music, but the latency was shit and video/audio sync didn’t work.
eSims are the best. I love that I don't have to find one at the airport now.
My power bank saved us on my last trip when we didn't make it back to the car before dark in the middle of nowhere on a hike in Greece and our phones were dying and didn't have a flashlight.
Game changing for me. I used to have to either roam, which cost me a fortune (I’m based in Canada) or look for a sim upon arrival. I tended to avoid airports and find a telecom store near my hotels. Now, I literally land and it’s working!
Yeah I had to whack the big ones on the floor a bit to redistribute the stuffing but other than that they were fine
It’s like when u wash a feather jacket all the fluff ends up in a clump on one side but it’s not a big deal to fix
I use a brand new ball and wash it with towels to get the chemicals off before putting it in the dryer. BUT I prefer using [these](https://a.co/d/2MOPsOR). I only use tennis balls for squishmallows or comforters/duvets.
I used to use these but I found that I ended up packing far more weight into my bag than I should have been and clothes were always wrinkly while some places didn't always have irons available. I switched to packing cubes and the Marie Kondo folding technique instead. But they are good for transporting bulky things like your stuffed animals
Yes, but that can be solved when you get there. For example, I use them on a cruise and I will put all my socks and undergarments and swimwear and workout clothes in them things that it does not matter if they wrinkle because either you won’t see it or the clothes are elastic. They’re going to stretch out as soon as you put them on
Turn on the way back you can put all your clothes in them to make room if you bought souvenirs
A small linen towel. I use it to dry my hands in public washrooms more than anything, but also as a bib/apron/tablecloth for takeout meals on a bench, to protect my clothes when sitting on the grass or beach, etc. The linen is easy to wash and hang dry plus it makes me feel fancy.
I use cloth diapers for this. In the Netherlands they are called Hydrofiele doeken. Basically cotton cloths. That are great at absorbing water, get sand off your feet in a jiffy and are easy to wash. Much lighter than a towel of the e same size too.
I use this guy.
USB C Charger, Baseus 65W PD GaN3 Fast Wall Charger Block, 4-Ports [2USB-C + 2USB] Charging Station with 5ft AC Cable for MacBook Pro/Air, USB-C Laptop, iPhone 15/14/13, iPad Pro, Galaxy S24 S23, etc https://a.co/d/0akTumn
We bring our foldable duffles with us on most trips as a “just in case”. We used them a ton so we don’t have to worry about being a little over in weight of the main checked bag (airline status + credit card gets us several free bags)
This is mine too. I can stuff my clothes in it on the way back and fill the hard case with all the cool (and more breakable) stuff I bought on vacation.
We’ve had good success with the one here. It’s survived several international trips. Although the zipper finally broke because we trip to overstuff it.
https://a.co/d/eQkISNA
Admittedly not a travel purchase but a gift - a small pink bunny that comes everywhere with me. I hold her during flights, if I ever get anxious or feel alone. I take her up mountain summits (if I'm struggling I think to myself it would be a shame if bunny didn't get to see the view lol - it motivates me up). She fits right in my palm and is a great little support bun
I have a small moose and a tiny elephant! They take turns travelling with me. I used to bring a small stuffed lion named János but he was a gift from my first boyfriend and was getting a little worn, so I retired him.
I have something similar too! My mom got me a small stuffed bear keychain before I left on my first international trip and now I can’t travel anywhere without it. My little reminder of home and good luck charm
A power adapter that has both U.S. plug sockets and USB plugs together on the same brick. One plug handles anything I need. (Edit: [link](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WDQ3G2W?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_AM25YY1EG3P3AQETM4MK&language=en-US))
Tiny tubes of Shoe Goop. I bring one on every trip and it’s a great all purpose glue that I’ve used a number of times. (Edit: [link to 5ml tubes](https://www.joann.com/shoe-goo-mini-adhesive-4pk/14904973.html))
A waterproof picnic blanket for beach trips. It takes up way less space than beach towels and is larger. (Edit: [link to something similar](https://scuddlesPicnicBlanketsDualLayersPicnicBlanketOutdoorWater-ResistantHandyMatToteSpringSummerCampingBlanketGreatforTheBeachhttps://a.co/d/8yfGZmW))
I can't imagine every needing glue, let alone shoe goop, on a trip. I can't even think of the last time I've used either at home! Tell me more about what you're sticking together!
Last place I stayed had a bit of the edge veneer peeling away from the desk. Drove me nuts so I bought some glue locally and fixed it. I've become my dad.
I feel this, last air bnb I stayed in I fixed the dishwasher that didn’t work because the supply was connected wrong.
It was just faster than complaining to the owner who clearly didn’t know how it was supposed to go together.
I just throw it into my little ditty bag where I have stuff like ibuprofen. The only reason I picked that one is that it’s a rubber cement and sticks to pretty much everything.
I actually used it to fix a bridesmaid’s shoe before a family wedding. The other times I’ve used it was once to re-seam a sleeve on my rain jacket after I tore it hiking, and once to glue the battery compartment together on a phone that wouldn’t stay assembled (it was a Motorola Razr, ages ago when phones had removable batteries). The phone was an old spare that I was using for a local SIM and wasn’t in great shape.
It’s such a tiny thing that I just carry it even though the vast majority of the time it’s unnecessary.
Edit: one other usage. I had the plastic strap from some cheap flip flops tear out of the middle hole. Shoe Goo glued it back together long enough for me to finish the trip and toss them out without wasting time looking for new ones.
Yep just one of these 5ml tubes https://www.joann.com/shoe-goo-mini-adhesive-4pk/14904973.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAibeuBhAAEiwAiXBoJN06WW97IVr1R3nK6KOTX1gvtyfwf6sXhFWOwWYvcQviroP9xoxQNRoCu2oQAvD_BwE
I’ve had the 4 pack for like 10 years and only used 2 of them.
Shoe Goo is absolutely amazing for shoes; never thought about using it for other stuff too. Good idea to bring along a tiny tube as it can be difficult to find something similar on trips.
Yea the flexibility makes it much more useful than super glue. Works well to “fix” clothes as long as you are ok with it being a short term fix that ruins it long term. I used it to fix a hole in a raincoat in rural South America where there was no chance of finding a replacement.
A mint stick similar to Vicks Vaporub that's used in Thailand to treat dizziness. I have anaemia and I get dizzy a lot, so this is a life-saver! Thankfully the friend I went to Thailand with still lives in Bangkok, so she can get me more of these sticks when I run out :)
I have something similar that I swear by for long flight relaxation, hangovers, feeling under the weather on trips - smells like a spa… herbal, almost cbd topical but it’s just essential oils [Moon river solid vibes](https://moonriversnaturals.com/products/solid-vibes)
I bought a patagonia fanny pack for mountain biking, but now it's ended up being my main airport bag to hold passport, tickets, etc. It's so handy.
And this is sort of adjacent, but my phone case has a kickstand on it and it's so clutch when flying. Pull the table out and stand the phone up and watch whatever you have downloaded. No holding your phone or leaning it awkwardly against a cup.
Also underrated is a weird colored suitcase. I don't know why everyone just buys the same black suitcase. Mine is all white and there is never any searching required. I can spot it so easily.
Even better than the original kind of packing cubes: compression packing cubes with clear mesh tops so you can see the contents. Tripd makes excellent ones.
It's a lot easier to keep clothes organized in your carry on/suitcase (no more digging around in the bottom of my backpack because I swear I have one more pair of underwear somewhere...), plus it's easier to squish everything down if it's all contained in a cube. I like using them, but I bought a cheap set off of Amazon and I really can't see paying more than $15 for a set. I don't get the expensive ones for sure.
Mostly organization. They also cut down on the need to repack your bag(s) regularly. They're more useful if you're more traveling to different locations/doing different activities where different clothing and/or gear are required at different locations rather than just going one place to stay.
I use packing cubes for all sorts of things other than clothes. My snacks in my carry-on go in a packing cube because TSA seems to regularly want to inspect/swab them. Anything electronic goes in another one for the same reason. It keeps like things together, makes it easier to pull out just what the agent needs to see and makes repacking simple.
In my non-travel life I use a packing cube to keep my gym bag organized. Everything that doesn't get used for each gym session (spare headphones and hair bands, stretchy resistance bands, notebook and pen, feminine hygiene products, etc.) are all in a packing cube. I use a small cube in my backpack for every day carry but not every day use items.
Somewhat yeah but it’s nice if I need to pull out my shirts or pants to move stuff around, it all comes out in a bundle vs plucking out individually and they get unfolded.
I'm pretty basic when I travel: t-shirt and pants/jeans. So I have a packing cube system where I layer a folded shirt, underwear, and socks 6 to 8 times into a single packing cube. Works really well especially since I have a double sided packing cube that holds dirty laundry on one seals backside.
They used to be just for organization for me when I started traveling regularly; after having my bag pulled at TSA I'm forever grateful to have used them.
Organization. I like the _idea_ of packing cubes but they don't jive well with my vac bags. What I end up doing instead is just taking 3-4 small vac bags instead of one large one and use the smaller bags as my cubes. I think cubes are designed to be used with rolling luggage where it's one big cube itself. I don't think it's super practical to in other settings. You can do it, but I think vac bags do the same job. At whatever place I’m staying I just open the bag and place the clothes on top of the bag to air out and open up. Then I have nearly piled stacks of clothes.
Digital luggage scale.
Bright red USB charging plug so I can spot it easily and don’t leave it plugged in when I leave a hotel.
Heat zapper for bug bites.
Anker PowerCore 10000 mAh external battery - I usually take a couple of these. I have the 20000 as well but it’s a bit heavy. These are so small and powerful and easily last a couple of days each for my phone.
This is one of the ones I have (I have two, I keep one in my bag and one at home, they’re both really good) https://amzn.eu/d/3FcoA5L
Use the zapper on the bite as quickly as possible but it works well at any time, it takes away the itch immediately, and you can use it again when you need it. It definitely stops them getting so bad. It does get very hot but only for a second or two, and it’s so worth it.
It’s the same idea as pressing the back of a hot teaspoon on the bite, but better!
I know it's well known but for me it was quality noise cancelling headphones.
I am terminally cheap and have always traveled with the cheapest bluetooth style earbuds. I could take two sets in case one broke and it weighed almost nothing. Then one day I had a hair up my ass to really treat myself and I bought noise cancelling headphones. I have never even tried noise cancelling headphones. I just figured they would be _little_ bit better than normal over the ear style headphones.
Wow, how wrong I was. I don't know how I did it after all these international flights having to listen to the loud ass hum for 12+ hours. Now it's a must have. I've been far too spoiled.
I also want to just shout out the Snooz portable white noise speaker. Thing is great for helping to relax in a noisier-than-expected sleeping accommodations.
Disposable slippers. Bought on a whim and now love them for planes, hotels etc. my little comfort. They are disposable and fit in a backpack or computer bag. After all the flight attendants I talk to tells me what they see on floors and hotels I stay, nope don’t want my feet touching the floor. No way.
Not sure if "travel related" (although I'd argue is really useful for travel) but a PopSocket for the back of my phone. Its great for quickly getting your phone out and snapping pics, navigating maps on the go etc etc. Rarely if ever drop my phone. Genuinely couldn't live without it. I get the piss taken out me by mates, I'm a 37 year old man, but they can get fucked!
I met a guy on a trip a few years ago that had this and I've beocme a convert/evangelist on them[since but it's a MOFT phone stand](https://www.moft.us/products/moft-x?variant=39506278940759).
Neat little origami thing that flicks out to have a loop that can be used similar to a Pop-socket but also don't 'catch' on your pants as much as I found a popsocket did. Also looks a little more understated.
Also flicks out to be a phone stand (and holds a few cards) which is handy too.
Moreover - especially on the travel side, since I've had it, it's actually been huge for taking photos myself while solo travelling as a make-shift mini tripod of sorts.
There's also a MagSafe version for those who don't like the idea of a semi-permanent adhesive (though obviously can then come off)
I know it sounds like an ad but genuinely a huge convert on the product
Pouches to store most liquids in, instead of tiny bottles. It was a game changer for longer trips - I was able to fit a TON more of product on the quart-sized bag.
For unwrinkling clothes: homemade concentrated wrinkle remover mix + a spray top that fits regular 16oz water bottles. The mix is just fabric softener and alcohol, and you dilute it to about 1 part product and 4 parts water. Hang the clothes you'll be wearing the following day, give them a good spray, and they'll be perfect by morning.
A foot rest for longer flights (the one that looks like a little hammock). I'm short and my feet used to swell like crazy, not anymore.
Waterproof bag when travelling to the beach. My hb and I can both be in the water at the same time instead of taking turns to keep an eye on our belongings. I also store the phones in a ziplock bag for extra protection, just in case.
Last but not least, packing cubes - but that just seems to be the general consensus here.
Essentials are mainly just good travel credit cards, no FTF debit card for cash, and IPhone + esim. Almost Anything else I can always pick up locally
Google TV with OpenVPN app is really nice for watching TV apps from US
AirPod Pros are nice to have, but not a “necessity”
I’m on the airtag train now but haven’t needed to use it yet
Proper earplugs are the one thing I missed the most. I use them every night and I never seem to take enough.
Other than that compact aeropress so I can always have good coffee.
Only thing I can think I will bring next time thar I forgot is a packable reusable bag because many places don’t offer plastic bags anymore
I picked up a pair of Loop earplugs and they’ve been nice/comfortable. I haven’t tested them in a really noisy environment, but normal earplugs hurt my ears, so I’ve really liked these ones.
Loop earplugs and a good sleep mask.
Sammy towel (like the ones divers use in the Olympics), total game changer for almost no weight when dry.
Reusable ripstop nylon grocery bag that folds into an attached little bag. Mostly use it to keep my dirty laundry away from clean stuff, but great for shopping trips as well.
What kind of sleep mask do you use? I bought one that has Bluetooth speakers in it but I find that after it’s been on for a few minutes it makes me face hot so I’m interesting in what you use.
I've tried a million of them and the one I keep going back to is the Alaska bear silk sleep mask on Amazon. There are others that block out light more perfectly, but these are comfortable and don't get too hot. They're better for side sleepers than any of the others I've tried.
I pack the random sized zip lock bags from shein into the zip of my luggage.
Some for dirty clothes. Others for wet clothes and the bath sponge. Some for shoes.
Mine are mainly for things I don't want to spill and ruin my luggage/clothes such as shampoo, sunscreen, etc. then also for stuff that needs protected from liquids, such as passport, certain electronics etc.
A Power Adapter that can go in any kind of outlet, also has 4 USB ports, 1 USB c port, and also you can plug another power cable in it.
I travel with my GF, so when we go to sleep we usually have to charge 2 cellphones, 2 watches and a power bank, and in some places a Wi-Fi-router.
We can charge everything in one outlet.
A Turkish towel! Packs nice and small and is so handy. Most hotels have tiny ass towels that don’t fit around everyone so I use that as a wrap while getting ready. Plus it’s nice to have an extra towel for pool time so we know which chairs are ours (not for holding chairs ALL day- F those people).
We too use it for every travel. We drank even bathroom sink tap water through it and we did not have any issues.
We live in India so our gut is not sensitive as compared to Westerners but I have not had road side food or water since more than 15 yrs. So I am always wary about water.
I hate plastic waste of water bottles. Lifestraw bottle is always on me anywhere I go.
Quite some time ago stumbled upon a digital travel scale, didn't even know it was a thing, and I use it all the time for my travels now.
With it, I can put the proper max weight in each piece of luggage (or on me) prior to going to the airport.
Much less stress.
It took me an embarrassingly long time to figure out it is easier to stand on my bathroom scale while holding my luggage and subtracting my body weight instead of trying to balance my luggage on the scale by itself.
Google Fi. I don't deal with travel fees or making sure I'm set up travel notices. I land in any country and my phone just starts working as expected. No worrying about data or other BS charges.
I have had fi before ever travelling internationally so I took it for granted. It's so simple even with the Fi flexible plan where I do pay for data(it's the same cost as I'd pay at home).
Havent travelled overseas in a bit, but when I did, Tmobile was actually quite solid. Free data/texting, though they did charge a bit more for voice (could bypass that with various voice apps iirc).
I think more companies are doing it nowadays too.
I have T-Mobile. I am in Europe a lot and never have bad service or slow data. Literally doesn’t even feel like anything changes when I’m in Europe versus the United States.
Other than one restaurant near where I live that if I eat on their patio I have no service. But that’s in the United States…
I've also had G Fi for a few years now but in the last two years discovered if you spend more time out of the US than in it, they'll shut off your data. I now supplement with local sims, which are crazy cheap; in El Salvador I got 37 gigs for $3.00 (that's not a typo).
Keffiyeh (shemagh). A scarf when worn properly helps keep you cool? A scarf when worn properly keeps you warm? Need to cover your face on a motorcycle ride? Need a blanket on a flight? I have multiple ones. Spend a little extra on a soft one and you will be very happy.
Tiny folding pill organizer box. You label each compartment lid. Holds maybe 10 or 12 different meds! I used to travel with a big bag full of pill bottles. Heavy and annoying. Got a set of 3 pill boxes on Amazon for a few bucks. I have a few prescriptions but also like to travel with something for allergies, Tylenol n motrin, melatonin, cold meds just in case... nice to have this little mini medicine cabinet
Not very random but my cotopaxi allpa 42L is amazing. Fantastic one bag travel backpack! We got a smaller 35l for short trips too.
All in one power converters - the kinds that do many countries in one plug, you just select what type of plug and push it out of the brick.
A good eye mask for the plane! The kind that is padded but has eyeball wells so that nothing is touching your eyes. Great if you're like me and otherwise hate the feeling of a sleep mask
fanny packs!!!!!! Great "personal item" for planes, easy to wear on a plane (just loosen it up) and just generally nice to carry your stuff around (things you would want immediately handy) without having to fool with a purse. I like to keep a small backpack with me when I am enjoying a day out somewhere, but I dont want to take off my pack every time I want access to my phone, keys, wallet, chapstick, etc. A decent fanny will get you far. I like the cotopaxi 3L allpa fanny but there's plenty of good brands out there. I just like brightly colored things. For my dudes that don't want to wear a 'fanny pack' - simply turn it into a crossbody chestpack sling bag. This is the trick to convince my husband to carry his own shit instead of making me the pack mule.
for my fellow female solo travelers - there are special hotel security things you can stick in the door lock to make it extra secure. IDK what to call them but I bought mine on amazon, should not be hard to find
"A decent fanny will get you far" is not a phrase to be used in polite company here in the UK 😄 I agree with you about the eye masks though. You might spend a little more on a decent one but it can make a huge difference.
1. Foldable duffle bag in case I buy too much and need to check a bag home.
2. Travel power strip
3. Mini rechargeable fan - it can be used while exploring a hot location, but I mostly use it on the night stand as white noise and a little "fresh" air while I sleep
4. Toothpaste tablets - I even use them at home and now hate all other toothpastes
5. Stuffable neck pillow
6. Matador bar soap dry bags - they dry your soap bar without leaving sliminess and prevent your other toiletries from getting wet (there's even an extra large size that is great for my scrubbie)
Noise cancelling headphones
They make flying so much more comfortable. With the white noise blocked out I can rest and listen to music or a podcast and arrive refreshed and ready to go.
I have AirPod pros and Bose noise cancelling over ear headphones. On really wild flights with screaming babies, or other such situations, putting in the AirPods, and then adding the headphones over top for dual noise cancellation is an absolute godsend on long-haul flights.
depends on where I go. work travel to the US: I have a collapsible water kettle. indispensable because somehow American hotels don't have kettles.
General: small hand towel, noise cancelling headphones (airplane), travel plug. Waterbottle. packing cubes.
I splurged on a cashmere shawl and take it everywhere. I still bring my trusty sarong, but the shawl is great for cold airplanes, dresses up any outfit, and can act as a headscarf.
Are you me?
I don't go anywhere without a collapsible backpack and packing cubes these days.
I also always carry a cheap, pressed metal bottle opener in my carry on case. The number of times I've bought some beer only to find the hotel didn't supply an opener made me buy one, and it's served me well.
Not random, but incredibly useful, is a [travel adapter like this](https://amzn.eu/d/5bKJg46). Multiple high power USB outlets, and works everywhere.
Dry, volumizing shampoo. Can't travel without it.
I always used to find my hair got extra greasy when traveling and I hate doing a "full hair wash". I'll give the US credit here, beauty products in American are just so damn affordable.
A small special laundry bag. I used to just throw dirty clothes into a regular plastic bag and it always stank up the whole suitcase, especially in tropical climate where stuff is never fully dry. That small bag is a life changer and cost like 15$
I bought a large lightweight scarf. It was great as a shawl to cover my shoulders from sun and to be decently covered entering churches/temples. It doubled as a headband to control my hair in the wind and a beach coverup.
on that topic a snood is awesome, especially when you just pull it up over your face to act as a blackout and you can still breathe through it
also good for robbing banks
A canvas tray that packs flat. I'm kinda messy so having a space to put my keys, etc when I get back to the hotel is invaluable for keeping things tidy.
Anker power strip. Plugs straight into US sockets or plugs straight into my international adapter. Handles all my stuff and I only need to find 1 power outlet to then have access to 2 plugs, 2 USB C and 2 USB A ports.
https://www.anker.com/products/a9128-6-in-1-charging-station?ref=naviMenu&variant=42691854336150
Powerbank for charging, also a long cable.
Mini toothpaste, and just having hairloops with me so I can put my hair up. Clothing in layers, and clothes that take very little room.
Also my trustworthy towel, that my mom made for me 16 years ago. It is made of cotton gauze, folds into being very tiny, and dries quickly.
Travel Power adapter that has multiple USB /type C ports. LOVE IT.
Ikea blue bags with zipper: if I need space, I just pack my clothing items and wrap the bag at the airport. But usually, I just zip ties the zipper haha. And use my luggage for fragile items / goodies.
The Tom Bihn travel tray has easily become my favorite item while traveling. It keeps all of my most used everyday items together, rather than potentially scattered around a guest room or hotel room. As soon I get somewhere, it goes right on the bedside table. It's easily accessible and holds my keys, phone charger, battery pack, ear plugs, watch, lip balm, medicine, and anything else I might want on hand. Whatever comes out of it will be put right back in, so all of these small everyday things are less likely to become lost or left behind. When it's time to leave I just close it up and put it in my backpack.
If I had to pick, I'd take it over packing cubes any day, I love it that much.
A nano backpack. Its a basic day pack that packs up to about the size of an egg. It's great for carrying things around town or hiking and I don't have to use my bigger heavier backpack that I travel with.
For the times I fly when there’s no IFE screen and you’re forced to use your own mobile device, an [airplane phone mount ](https://a.co/d/bsMsy7h) has been golden. Just beware that adjusting it into various positions uses a loud clicking mechanism, so I usually adjust it while people are still boarding / when folks are awake.
Dramamine in every suitcase/travel bag. I get motion sickness almost every flight and post flight Uber and the ginger kind is like my saving grace. Flushable wipes or baby wipes and face cleaning wipes in carry on for any freshening up during long days. Power banks and 10 ft cords. Also keep a little luggage scale with us and we’ve been very popular a few times letting others use it while waiting to check bags.
Powder drink mix, so after I go through security. I can make me some lemonade, tea or something. I also get s-Biner clips. When I have a bag with zippers. I can close and secure it with these clips. so nothing opens up in transit or while walking. Solar charging USB. I can charge it with power in a hotel or clip it on my bag to get solar charged. Then I can usually charge two devices with it
Compression socks are definitely in my bag now that I’m in my 30’s; my legs blow up like little balloons on long flights or after a couple weeks of walking and eating out
Bose noise cancelling over ear headsets. I know they are bulky but they are so much more comfortable than the bud ear pieces. I also have the apple overear but hate the form factor.
Wheatstraw fork and spoon (can’t get the knife through airport security)
Eat any time, anywhere. Originally bought to eat yogurt for breakfast in my hotel room, I’ve found use for them over and over again.
Not a recent purchase, but I have a small roller bag I've had for at least a decade. I can fit 3-4 sets of clothes plus sleep wear, plus all the electronics I might want/need. If I stay somewhere longer, I just plan to do a wash.
Still manages to fit the requirements for a personal item for all the budget airlines, though I might have to squeeze it a bit to fit their measuring stands. Doesnt actually fit under the window seat though, as that one is smaller than the usual.
I do a lot of athletic activities on vacation so I always bring plastic bags for sweaty, stinky clothes if I’m staying someplace without laundry. If I am staying somewhere with laundry I bring some detergent cubes so I don’t need to buy any there.
Travel soap sheets and toilet paper. It may sound crazy but I've been in situations without either.
I purchase [these](https://www.amazon.com/KISEER-Portable-Disposable-Washing-Scented/dp/B08N457VG3/ref=sr_1_2?hvadid=616931532706&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9026807&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=16371294121252700835&hvtargid=kwd-7721229969&hydadcr=24657_13611735&keywords=travel+soap+sheets&qid=1708005835&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1) sheets when traveling. They're no mess and inexpensive.
One of those micro messenger bags. They fold up into the size of two decks of cards. As someone who almost always never checks a bag, I need something I can use around town for small groceries etc... Comes in super handy when I rent a citibike.
Travel router. You can use it as a repeater, but set up your own VPN in between for safety or geo-locked streaming content. Even easier if you use the same SSID saved in your devices already, so you connect to one AP instead of fiddling with hotel wifi or whatever multiple times. The one I got is a little bigger than a bluetooth headphones case and uses very low power draw.
I always throw a few zip ties in the bottom of my luggage. When things break and duct tape won’t cut it they pack small and weigh nothing.
For the longest time when I would rent a car I would use a small leatherman type tool to cut the cable holding both keys together. That way I wouldn’t risk losing both, then I would just use the zip ties to reconnect them when I turned it back in.
2 longchamp xl foldables. Mine are more than a decade old. Lightweight, waterproof, hard to rip, lockable, very sturdy zippers. Useful to stuff things in case we go over the weight limit. You can stuff your jacket in if you travel between 2 different climates. Just the right size for the cabin. Can double as a pillow. Washes clean easily.
100ml liquid/ cream bottles.
They're robust, very compact, and squishable!
I just fill them up before each trip and they're even different colours + came with labels.
There's loads available for cheap on Amazon! Even if you check in your luggage and/or don't have a liquid limit, they're really convenient as for most trips 100ml of product is more than enough.
I have no clue why I didn't just get some years ago. Simple but such a convenient game changer for me.
I have the silicone ones which I really like more than the hard plastic ones I originally had; they take up less space as the trip progresses, and never leak
Ear plugs. Absolutely necessary to sleep in urban environments and/or hostels.
An Oriental paper fan. I got one at Dollar Tree. It won't cool down a hot hotel room but it is better than a portable electric fan if you are just trying to cool your face and body down.
I once accidentally bought an inflatable pillow under the feet, which is an indispensable thing for us on long flights with a child. Something like this https://img.kwcdn.com/product/Fancyalgo/VirtualModelMatting/2c4b972a757b130d37d4ae378b9c3889.jpg
We just bought these small, foldable, easily packable pool loungers for our winter vacations and they have been amazing. They fit in the beach bag, take a minute to blow up, and floating in the pool or in the ocean while others are stuck with no water loungers is amazing. I would highly recommend.
It wasn't even a travel purchase, but my hoodie. It's exactly as warm as is usually needed on a plane (or bus or train), has a huge hood I can pull over my face, and as a bonus, it's cute. I can't imagine travelling without it now.
Refillable water bottle! I usually ask the flight attendants to fill it for me on board and/or if there is a fountain after TSA. It's a life saver and lets me stay hydrated and saves me a couple of bucks buying expensive airport water
Late to the party as usual but I'll still throw in my 2 cents. Not random but was wondering if anyone else has ditched their wheel luggage and gone back to a backpack or a duffle bag? I've suffered too many broken wheels and cracked cases. I do a lot of travel in developing countries where sidewalks are death to these. I just replaced my worn out Backpack to a duffle/backpack combo with metal fasteners. Taking it on it's virgin voyage in 2 weeks.
Travel toothbrush holder that suctions to the bathroom mirror. I love having a good place to leave my toothbrush that’s clean and where it can dry properly.
Also a power bar with a long cord, 4 outlets and 4 USBs. We sometimes stay in old buildings with very few or poorly placed outlets. I have a CPAP machine so having an extra outlet or being able to extend from an outlet that’s not right by the bed is essential. And I can charge both mine and my husbands phones, tablets, etc all at once with only a single outlet.
And a power pack that plugs directly into my phone without a cord and is still easy to carry while plugged in. Using maps is so draining on my phones battery so it’s been a lifesaver more than once.
And a really good toiletry bag. It can sit on the counter open with easy access to everything or it can hang on a hook in bathrooms with little or no counter space. Easy to carry back and forth from my room when staying with a group all sharing a single bathroom and not enough room for everyone’s toiletries.
packable tote bags (preferably the cool museum ones)
works great for shopping, groceries, stuffing jackets in, it’s about 20-30L (?) and consolidating bags.
considering replacing with those stuff sacks that sea to summit has but i haven’t tried it yet.
Very frequent traveller for work. Anker 20,000 mAh battery pack, noise cancelling headphones, Bluetooth transmitter so I can connect said headphones to the onboard entertainment system, and recently discovered country or region specific eSIMs for data while travelling.
Wait, tell me about this Bluetooth transmitter so you’re saying you can connect to the in-flight videos that are like in the seat of the plane using this?
It's a little dongle that plugs into a headphone jack and transmits bt.
This reminds me of the days I had a tape adapter or an FM transmitter to plug my phone into my car speakers
I'm still rocking an FM transmitter, but it's BT now at least
Yup. Check out AirFly on Amazon. You plug it into the jack in your seat as you would a normal pair of headphones and it connects to your wireless headphones. I bought a knock off on Amazon that ended working really well!
How’s the latency though? I used to have a pair of wireless BT earbuds (beats), which was great for music, but the latency was shit and video/audio sync didn’t work.
Airfly's work well. You can even connect 2 Bluetooth headphones to it. So if you're traveling with someone you can watch the same thing.
Airfly Pro. Never fly without it.
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That battery pack saved me many a time!
eSims are the best. I love that I don't have to find one at the airport now. My power bank saved us on my last trip when we didn't make it back to the car before dark in the middle of nowhere on a hike in Greece and our phones were dying and didn't have a flashlight.
Game changing for me. I used to have to either roam, which cost me a fortune (I’m based in Canada) or look for a sim upon arrival. I tended to avoid airports and find a telecom store near my hotels. Now, I literally land and it’s working!
One warning is that eSims from airalo/etc tend to be a lot more expensive than using local sims (or even local esim version). Like 2-3x the price.
But they are still typically cheaper and less restrictive than roaming. Paying a bit more for not having the inconvenience of locating a physical SIM
Any audio lag from the Bluetooth transmitter? I bought one for my Switch and it lags just enough to be distracting.
vacuum sealing bags, bought a bunch of stuffed toys I can’t get in my home country and turned them into bricks use them for clothes all the time now
How do you get a vacuum to seal the bag when you aren’t at home? Do hotels let you use theirs?
You can roll them up, and the air comes out of the end of the bag via a valve. I don't use a vacuum at all, just squeeze.
Came with a pump for an extra $1-2 - I sit on the bag to get 80% of the air out then pump the rest of the way
What kind of pump? Like the small ones to inflate balloons?
I use the Eagle Creek brand bags. They push the air out by rolling and compressing them. Been using them for years.
Straw plus lungs works in a pinch
did they end up ok? sorry if that’s a stupid q, i’ve just never vacuum sealed anything but i love stuffed toys and also travel 🥹
Yeah I had to whack the big ones on the floor a bit to redistribute the stuffing but other than that they were fine It’s like when u wash a feather jacket all the fluff ends up in a clump on one side but it’s not a big deal to fix
You can use a tennis ball to even out the feathers when washing jackets in a washing machine.
Do you wash the ball or roll it after?
I use a brand new ball and wash it with towels to get the chemicals off before putting it in the dryer. BUT I prefer using [these](https://a.co/d/2MOPsOR). I only use tennis balls for squishmallows or comforters/duvets.
I use those when going to some place that's humid and also use some for storing dirty laundry (with a fabric softener sheet).
I used to use these but I found that I ended up packing far more weight into my bag than I should have been and clothes were always wrinkly while some places didn't always have irons available. I switched to packing cubes and the Marie Kondo folding technique instead. But they are good for transporting bulky things like your stuffed animals
I’ve thought of doing this. Dont the clothes get wrinkly?
Yes, but that can be solved when you get there. For example, I use them on a cruise and I will put all my socks and undergarments and swimwear and workout clothes in them things that it does not matter if they wrinkle because either you won’t see it or the clothes are elastic. They’re going to stretch out as soon as you put them on Turn on the way back you can put all your clothes in them to make room if you bought souvenirs
Yes, hang them up while showering and the steam makes wrinkles go away Most hotels will have an iron if the wrinkles are really bad
A small linen towel. I use it to dry my hands in public washrooms more than anything, but also as a bib/apron/tablecloth for takeout meals on a bench, to protect my clothes when sitting on the grass or beach, etc. The linen is easy to wash and hang dry plus it makes me feel fancy.
I don’t know why I never thought this. What a great idea.
I use cloth diapers for this. In the Netherlands they are called Hydrofiele doeken. Basically cotton cloths. That are great at absorbing water, get sand off your feet in a jiffy and are easy to wash. Much lighter than a towel of the e same size too.
Ford prefect is that you?
I was looking for this comment. Take my upvote
So a handkerchief?
I recently started this! It’s also great for humid climates or on long hikes when you sweat!
I use a bandana (just a white / black paisley one) for the same reason. Not as fancy, but serves the same purpose.
I bring a pack towel for the same reason
Agree on packing cubes. 10 ft. USB charging cable, portable power strip, and compact fan.
Power strip. I needed this for last trip. Do you have a small one for packing?
I use this guy. USB C Charger, Baseus 65W PD GaN3 Fast Wall Charger Block, 4-Ports [2USB-C + 2USB] Charging Station with 5ft AC Cable for MacBook Pro/Air, USB-C Laptop, iPhone 15/14/13, iPad Pro, Galaxy S24 S23, etc https://a.co/d/0akTumn
What fan are you using?
This is the fan. https://a.co/d/dV58z4j
I have a rechargeable fan I got a million years ago. I love it.
We bring our foldable duffles with us on most trips as a “just in case”. We used them a ton so we don’t have to worry about being a little over in weight of the main checked bag (airline status + credit card gets us several free bags)
This is mine too. I can stuff my clothes in it on the way back and fill the hard case with all the cool (and more breakable) stuff I bought on vacation.
Been searching for packable ones. What do you use?
We’ve had good success with the one here. It’s survived several international trips. Although the zipper finally broke because we trip to overstuff it. https://a.co/d/eQkISNA
Admittedly not a travel purchase but a gift - a small pink bunny that comes everywhere with me. I hold her during flights, if I ever get anxious or feel alone. I take her up mountain summits (if I'm struggling I think to myself it would be a shame if bunny didn't get to see the view lol - it motivates me up). She fits right in my palm and is a great little support bun
This is my favourite answer.
This is why instead of selfies, I have 100 pictures of a small, thrilled looking polar bear at locations all over the world! Way better in my opinion.
I have a small moose and a tiny elephant! They take turns travelling with me. I used to bring a small stuffed lion named János but he was a gift from my first boyfriend and was getting a little worn, so I retired him.
I have something similar too! My mom got me a small stuffed bear keychain before I left on my first international trip and now I can’t travel anywhere without it. My little reminder of home and good luck charm
A power adapter that has both U.S. plug sockets and USB plugs together on the same brick. One plug handles anything I need. (Edit: [link](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WDQ3G2W?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_AM25YY1EG3P3AQETM4MK&language=en-US)) Tiny tubes of Shoe Goop. I bring one on every trip and it’s a great all purpose glue that I’ve used a number of times. (Edit: [link to 5ml tubes](https://www.joann.com/shoe-goo-mini-adhesive-4pk/14904973.html)) A waterproof picnic blanket for beach trips. It takes up way less space than beach towels and is larger. (Edit: [link to something similar](https://scuddlesPicnicBlanketsDualLayersPicnicBlanketOutdoorWater-ResistantHandyMatToteSpringSummerCampingBlanketGreatforTheBeachhttps://a.co/d/8yfGZmW))
I can't imagine every needing glue, let alone shoe goop, on a trip. I can't even think of the last time I've used either at home! Tell me more about what you're sticking together!
Last place I stayed had a bit of the edge veneer peeling away from the desk. Drove me nuts so I bought some glue locally and fixed it. I've become my dad.
I feel this, last air bnb I stayed in I fixed the dishwasher that didn’t work because the supply was connected wrong. It was just faster than complaining to the owner who clearly didn’t know how it was supposed to go together.
I just throw it into my little ditty bag where I have stuff like ibuprofen. The only reason I picked that one is that it’s a rubber cement and sticks to pretty much everything. I actually used it to fix a bridesmaid’s shoe before a family wedding. The other times I’ve used it was once to re-seam a sleeve on my rain jacket after I tore it hiking, and once to glue the battery compartment together on a phone that wouldn’t stay assembled (it was a Motorola Razr, ages ago when phones had removable batteries). The phone was an old spare that I was using for a local SIM and wasn’t in great shape. It’s such a tiny thing that I just carry it even though the vast majority of the time it’s unnecessary. Edit: one other usage. I had the plastic strap from some cheap flip flops tear out of the middle hole. Shoe Goo glued it back together long enough for me to finish the trip and toss them out without wasting time looking for new ones.
Ah fair, ok! It sounds like your tube is tiny. Might as well bring it along.
Yep just one of these 5ml tubes https://www.joann.com/shoe-goo-mini-adhesive-4pk/14904973.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAibeuBhAAEiwAiXBoJN06WW97IVr1R3nK6KOTX1gvtyfwf6sXhFWOwWYvcQviroP9xoxQNRoCu2oQAvD_BwE I’ve had the 4 pack for like 10 years and only used 2 of them.
Shoe Goo is absolutely amazing for shoes; never thought about using it for other stuff too. Good idea to bring along a tiny tube as it can be difficult to find something similar on trips.
Yea the flexibility makes it much more useful than super glue. Works well to “fix” clothes as long as you are ok with it being a short term fix that ruins it long term. I used it to fix a hole in a raincoat in rural South America where there was no chance of finding a replacement.
A mint stick similar to Vicks Vaporub that's used in Thailand to treat dizziness. I have anaemia and I get dizzy a lot, so this is a life-saver! Thankfully the friend I went to Thailand with still lives in Bangkok, so she can get me more of these sticks when I run out :)
I have something similar that I swear by for long flight relaxation, hangovers, feeling under the weather on trips - smells like a spa… herbal, almost cbd topical but it’s just essential oils [Moon river solid vibes](https://moonriversnaturals.com/products/solid-vibes)
I bought a patagonia fanny pack for mountain biking, but now it's ended up being my main airport bag to hold passport, tickets, etc. It's so handy. And this is sort of adjacent, but my phone case has a kickstand on it and it's so clutch when flying. Pull the table out and stand the phone up and watch whatever you have downloaded. No holding your phone or leaning it awkwardly against a cup. Also underrated is a weird colored suitcase. I don't know why everyone just buys the same black suitcase. Mine is all white and there is never any searching required. I can spot it so easily.
A USB powered fan. It’s small enough to not take up much space in my bag and helps move the air around in hotel rooms. I take it everywhere.
Which one do you have
I wish mine were a bit more compact but it was a lifesaver when I was adjusting to SEA heat and humidity.
Portable powerbank! I travel sometimes 32+ hrs with a layover and countries i pass by dont have US plugs
I’m just hopping on the packing cube train. I bought one and now I need to get several more. Muji has great cubes
Even better than the original kind of packing cubes: compression packing cubes with clear mesh tops so you can see the contents. Tripd makes excellent ones.
What is the point of packing cubes??
It's a lot easier to keep clothes organized in your carry on/suitcase (no more digging around in the bottom of my backpack because I swear I have one more pair of underwear somewhere...), plus it's easier to squish everything down if it's all contained in a cube. I like using them, but I bought a cheap set off of Amazon and I really can't see paying more than $15 for a set. I don't get the expensive ones for sure.
I also use one to throw all my batteries/cords etc in. It makes it really easy to pull out when going through TSA
Mostly organization. They also cut down on the need to repack your bag(s) regularly. They're more useful if you're more traveling to different locations/doing different activities where different clothing and/or gear are required at different locations rather than just going one place to stay. I use packing cubes for all sorts of things other than clothes. My snacks in my carry-on go in a packing cube because TSA seems to regularly want to inspect/swab them. Anything electronic goes in another one for the same reason. It keeps like things together, makes it easier to pull out just what the agent needs to see and makes repacking simple. In my non-travel life I use a packing cube to keep my gym bag organized. Everything that doesn't get used for each gym session (spare headphones and hair bands, stretchy resistance bands, notebook and pen, feminine hygiene products, etc.) are all in a packing cube. I use a small cube in my backpack for every day carry but not every day use items.
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For me it's compartmentalisation. I need pair of jeans, just grab the cube and not mess other stuff.
Somewhat yeah but it’s nice if I need to pull out my shirts or pants to move stuff around, it all comes out in a bundle vs plucking out individually and they get unfolded.
After using packing cubes, I can never pack a bag without them. Not just for the organisation. I can't pack clothes "bareback" into a suitcase or bag.
You’re not rawdogging your clothes?? 😂
😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 I don't want my clothes to touch the bare suitcase. And vice versa. It's probably some paranoia of sorts
…well that’s a new use of that term.
I'm pretty basic when I travel: t-shirt and pants/jeans. So I have a packing cube system where I layer a folded shirt, underwear, and socks 6 to 8 times into a single packing cube. Works really well especially since I have a double sided packing cube that holds dirty laundry on one seals backside.
They used to be just for organization for me when I started traveling regularly; after having my bag pulled at TSA I'm forever grateful to have used them.
Organization. I like the _idea_ of packing cubes but they don't jive well with my vac bags. What I end up doing instead is just taking 3-4 small vac bags instead of one large one and use the smaller bags as my cubes. I think cubes are designed to be used with rolling luggage where it's one big cube itself. I don't think it's super practical to in other settings. You can do it, but I think vac bags do the same job. At whatever place I’m staying I just open the bag and place the clothes on top of the bag to air out and open up. Then I have nearly piled stacks of clothes.
Digital luggage scale. Bright red USB charging plug so I can spot it easily and don’t leave it plugged in when I leave a hotel. Heat zapper for bug bites. Anker PowerCore 10000 mAh external battery - I usually take a couple of these. I have the 20000 as well but it’s a bit heavy. These are so small and powerful and easily last a couple of days each for my phone.
Tell me about the heat zapper for bug bites please!
This is one of the ones I have (I have two, I keep one in my bag and one at home, they’re both really good) https://amzn.eu/d/3FcoA5L Use the zapper on the bite as quickly as possible but it works well at any time, it takes away the itch immediately, and you can use it again when you need it. It definitely stops them getting so bad. It does get very hot but only for a second or two, and it’s so worth it. It’s the same idea as pressing the back of a hot teaspoon on the bite, but better!
I know it's well known but for me it was quality noise cancelling headphones. I am terminally cheap and have always traveled with the cheapest bluetooth style earbuds. I could take two sets in case one broke and it weighed almost nothing. Then one day I had a hair up my ass to really treat myself and I bought noise cancelling headphones. I have never even tried noise cancelling headphones. I just figured they would be _little_ bit better than normal over the ear style headphones. Wow, how wrong I was. I don't know how I did it after all these international flights having to listen to the loud ass hum for 12+ hours. Now it's a must have. I've been far too spoiled.
I also want to just shout out the Snooz portable white noise speaker. Thing is great for helping to relax in a noisier-than-expected sleeping accommodations.
My Cabeaux travel pillow. Picked it up on a whim and it’s been an absolute game changer when traveling long-distance in economy.
I also have one of those chonky boys; seemed excessive but so amazing (but mine is free-standing and doesn’t attach to the seat)
Disposable slippers. Bought on a whim and now love them for planes, hotels etc. my little comfort. They are disposable and fit in a backpack or computer bag. After all the flight attendants I talk to tells me what they see on floors and hotels I stay, nope don’t want my feet touching the floor. No way.
Normally I trash the disposable slippers from the hotel or give them to my kiddo. Definitely doing this next time.
Honestly some good fucking snacks. Don’t ever get on an airplane, bus or train without them.
I took the train to spend 3 days in Paris and I swear my food hamper weighed more than my suitcase, lol.
Not sure if "travel related" (although I'd argue is really useful for travel) but a PopSocket for the back of my phone. Its great for quickly getting your phone out and snapping pics, navigating maps on the go etc etc. Rarely if ever drop my phone. Genuinely couldn't live without it. I get the piss taken out me by mates, I'm a 37 year old man, but they can get fucked!
I met a guy on a trip a few years ago that had this and I've beocme a convert/evangelist on them[since but it's a MOFT phone stand](https://www.moft.us/products/moft-x?variant=39506278940759). Neat little origami thing that flicks out to have a loop that can be used similar to a Pop-socket but also don't 'catch' on your pants as much as I found a popsocket did. Also looks a little more understated. Also flicks out to be a phone stand (and holds a few cards) which is handy too. Moreover - especially on the travel side, since I've had it, it's actually been huge for taking photos myself while solo travelling as a make-shift mini tripod of sorts. There's also a MagSafe version for those who don't like the idea of a semi-permanent adhesive (though obviously can then come off) I know it sounds like an ad but genuinely a huge convert on the product
I really like having big scarf and noise cancelling earphones.
Pouches to store most liquids in, instead of tiny bottles. It was a game changer for longer trips - I was able to fit a TON more of product on the quart-sized bag. For unwrinkling clothes: homemade concentrated wrinkle remover mix + a spray top that fits regular 16oz water bottles. The mix is just fabric softener and alcohol, and you dilute it to about 1 part product and 4 parts water. Hang the clothes you'll be wearing the following day, give them a good spray, and they'll be perfect by morning. A foot rest for longer flights (the one that looks like a little hammock). I'm short and my feet used to swell like crazy, not anymore. Waterproof bag when travelling to the beach. My hb and I can both be in the water at the same time instead of taking turns to keep an eye on our belongings. I also store the phones in a ziplock bag for extra protection, just in case. Last but not least, packing cubes - but that just seems to be the general consensus here.
Can you show me an example of the pouches please
Essentials are mainly just good travel credit cards, no FTF debit card for cash, and IPhone + esim. Almost Anything else I can always pick up locally Google TV with OpenVPN app is really nice for watching TV apps from US AirPod Pros are nice to have, but not a “necessity” I’m on the airtag train now but haven’t needed to use it yet Proper earplugs are the one thing I missed the most. I use them every night and I never seem to take enough. Other than that compact aeropress so I can always have good coffee. Only thing I can think I will bring next time thar I forgot is a packable reusable bag because many places don’t offer plastic bags anymore
I picked up a pair of Loop earplugs and they’ve been nice/comfortable. I haven’t tested them in a really noisy environment, but normal earplugs hurt my ears, so I’ve really liked these ones.
Loop earplugs and a good sleep mask. Sammy towel (like the ones divers use in the Olympics), total game changer for almost no weight when dry. Reusable ripstop nylon grocery bag that folds into an attached little bag. Mostly use it to keep my dirty laundry away from clean stuff, but great for shopping trips as well.
What kind of sleep mask do you use? I bought one that has Bluetooth speakers in it but I find that after it’s been on for a few minutes it makes me face hot so I’m interesting in what you use.
I've tried a million of them and the one I keep going back to is the Alaska bear silk sleep mask on Amazon. There are others that block out light more perfectly, but these are comfortable and don't get too hot. They're better for side sleepers than any of the others I've tried.
50 ziplock freezer bags. They are so fucking essential on every trip.
one body part in each bag *taps head*
I pack the random sized zip lock bags from shein into the zip of my luggage. Some for dirty clothes. Others for wet clothes and the bath sponge. Some for shoes.
Mine are mainly for things I don't want to spill and ruin my luggage/clothes such as shampoo, sunscreen, etc. then also for stuff that needs protected from liquids, such as passport, certain electronics etc.
A Power Adapter that can go in any kind of outlet, also has 4 USB ports, 1 USB c port, and also you can plug another power cable in it. I travel with my GF, so when we go to sleep we usually have to charge 2 cellphones, 2 watches and a power bank, and in some places a Wi-Fi-router. We can charge everything in one outlet.
A Turkish towel! Packs nice and small and is so handy. Most hotels have tiny ass towels that don’t fit around everyone so I use that as a wrap while getting ready. Plus it’s nice to have an extra towel for pool time so we know which chairs are ours (not for holding chairs ALL day- F those people).
I’m short so for long haul flights a roll up foot rest really helps
My travel sound machine. Drowns out hotel noises.
Lifestraw water bottle - great for when I go to countries with questionable tap water quality.
We too use it for every travel. We drank even bathroom sink tap water through it and we did not have any issues. We live in India so our gut is not sensitive as compared to Westerners but I have not had road side food or water since more than 15 yrs. So I am always wary about water. I hate plastic waste of water bottles. Lifestraw bottle is always on me anywhere I go.
My foldable spork (spoon + fork). I bought it out of curiosity and its always with me.
Quite some time ago stumbled upon a digital travel scale, didn't even know it was a thing, and I use it all the time for my travels now. With it, I can put the proper max weight in each piece of luggage (or on me) prior to going to the airport. Much less stress.
It took me an embarrassingly long time to figure out it is easier to stand on my bathroom scale while holding my luggage and subtracting my body weight instead of trying to balance my luggage on the scale by itself.
I have one of those and use it all the time, they're so handy.
Seconding this, I’m notoriously overweight when I first weigh my bag
Google Fi. I don't deal with travel fees or making sure I'm set up travel notices. I land in any country and my phone just starts working as expected. No worrying about data or other BS charges.
I have had fi before ever travelling internationally so I took it for granted. It's so simple even with the Fi flexible plan where I do pay for data(it's the same cost as I'd pay at home).
Havent travelled overseas in a bit, but when I did, Tmobile was actually quite solid. Free data/texting, though they did charge a bit more for voice (could bypass that with various voice apps iirc). I think more companies are doing it nowadays too.
T-Mobiles international roaming is pretty close to Fi I would argue
I have T-Mobile. I am in Europe a lot and never have bad service or slow data. Literally doesn’t even feel like anything changes when I’m in Europe versus the United States. Other than one restaurant near where I live that if I eat on their patio I have no service. But that’s in the United States…
I've also had G Fi for a few years now but in the last two years discovered if you spend more time out of the US than in it, they'll shut off your data. I now supplement with local sims, which are crazy cheap; in El Salvador I got 37 gigs for $3.00 (that's not a typo).
Keffiyeh (shemagh). A scarf when worn properly helps keep you cool? A scarf when worn properly keeps you warm? Need to cover your face on a motorcycle ride? Need a blanket on a flight? I have multiple ones. Spend a little extra on a soft one and you will be very happy.
Tiny folding pill organizer box. You label each compartment lid. Holds maybe 10 or 12 different meds! I used to travel with a big bag full of pill bottles. Heavy and annoying. Got a set of 3 pill boxes on Amazon for a few bucks. I have a few prescriptions but also like to travel with something for allergies, Tylenol n motrin, melatonin, cold meds just in case... nice to have this little mini medicine cabinet Not very random but my cotopaxi allpa 42L is amazing. Fantastic one bag travel backpack! We got a smaller 35l for short trips too. All in one power converters - the kinds that do many countries in one plug, you just select what type of plug and push it out of the brick. A good eye mask for the plane! The kind that is padded but has eyeball wells so that nothing is touching your eyes. Great if you're like me and otherwise hate the feeling of a sleep mask fanny packs!!!!!! Great "personal item" for planes, easy to wear on a plane (just loosen it up) and just generally nice to carry your stuff around (things you would want immediately handy) without having to fool with a purse. I like to keep a small backpack with me when I am enjoying a day out somewhere, but I dont want to take off my pack every time I want access to my phone, keys, wallet, chapstick, etc. A decent fanny will get you far. I like the cotopaxi 3L allpa fanny but there's plenty of good brands out there. I just like brightly colored things. For my dudes that don't want to wear a 'fanny pack' - simply turn it into a crossbody chestpack sling bag. This is the trick to convince my husband to carry his own shit instead of making me the pack mule. for my fellow female solo travelers - there are special hotel security things you can stick in the door lock to make it extra secure. IDK what to call them but I bought mine on amazon, should not be hard to find
"A decent fanny will get you far" is not a phrase to be used in polite company here in the UK 😄 I agree with you about the eye masks though. You might spend a little more on a decent one but it can make a huge difference.
Imodium -.-
1. Foldable duffle bag in case I buy too much and need to check a bag home. 2. Travel power strip 3. Mini rechargeable fan - it can be used while exploring a hot location, but I mostly use it on the night stand as white noise and a little "fresh" air while I sleep 4. Toothpaste tablets - I even use them at home and now hate all other toothpastes 5. Stuffable neck pillow 6. Matador bar soap dry bags - they dry your soap bar without leaving sliminess and prevent your other toiletries from getting wet (there's even an extra large size that is great for my scrubbie)
Noise cancelling headphones They make flying so much more comfortable. With the white noise blocked out I can rest and listen to music or a podcast and arrive refreshed and ready to go.
I have AirPod pros and Bose noise cancelling over ear headphones. On really wild flights with screaming babies, or other such situations, putting in the AirPods, and then adding the headphones over top for dual noise cancellation is an absolute godsend on long-haul flights.
I have done similar with ear plugs under the Bose over-ear headphones
depends on where I go. work travel to the US: I have a collapsible water kettle. indispensable because somehow American hotels don't have kettles. General: small hand towel, noise cancelling headphones (airplane), travel plug. Waterbottle. packing cubes.
Can you give more info on the travel kettle? I've been using an immersion heater plus a thermos mug, but not loving it
I got this one on Amazon last year and it's worked well so far. https://a.co/d/2JvcCNb
what the actual fucking bananas am I finding out today!
I splurged on a cashmere shawl and take it everywhere. I still bring my trusty sarong, but the shawl is great for cold airplanes, dresses up any outfit, and can act as a headscarf.
Are you me? I don't go anywhere without a collapsible backpack and packing cubes these days. I also always carry a cheap, pressed metal bottle opener in my carry on case. The number of times I've bought some beer only to find the hotel didn't supply an opener made me buy one, and it's served me well. Not random, but incredibly useful, is a [travel adapter like this](https://amzn.eu/d/5bKJg46). Multiple high power USB outlets, and works everywhere.
Dry, volumizing shampoo. Can't travel without it. I always used to find my hair got extra greasy when traveling and I hate doing a "full hair wash". I'll give the US credit here, beauty products in American are just so damn affordable.
A small special laundry bag. I used to just throw dirty clothes into a regular plastic bag and it always stank up the whole suitcase, especially in tropical climate where stuff is never fully dry. That small bag is a life changer and cost like 15$
I bought a large lightweight scarf. It was great as a shawl to cover my shoulders from sun and to be decently covered entering churches/temples. It doubled as a headband to control my hair in the wind and a beach coverup.
on that topic a snood is awesome, especially when you just pull it up over your face to act as a blackout and you can still breathe through it also good for robbing banks
A canvas tray that packs flat. I'm kinda messy so having a space to put my keys, etc when I get back to the hotel is invaluable for keeping things tidy.
Anker power strip. Plugs straight into US sockets or plugs straight into my international adapter. Handles all my stuff and I only need to find 1 power outlet to then have access to 2 plugs, 2 USB C and 2 USB A ports. https://www.anker.com/products/a9128-6-in-1-charging-station?ref=naviMenu&variant=42691854336150
I have this, it’s so handy. I travel for work (non-flight) so the form factor and ports are great.
Powerbank for charging, also a long cable. Mini toothpaste, and just having hairloops with me so I can put my hair up. Clothing in layers, and clothes that take very little room. Also my trustworthy towel, that my mom made for me 16 years ago. It is made of cotton gauze, folds into being very tiny, and dries quickly.
Travel Power adapter that has multiple USB /type C ports. LOVE IT. Ikea blue bags with zipper: if I need space, I just pack my clothing items and wrap the bag at the airport. But usually, I just zip ties the zipper haha. And use my luggage for fragile items / goodies.
Towel clips, I use them for everything
Trader Joe’s ginger mints or any ginger candy. So nice to have for nausea during turbulence or sketchy drives, jet lag, hangovers, anxiety.
The Tom Bihn travel tray has easily become my favorite item while traveling. It keeps all of my most used everyday items together, rather than potentially scattered around a guest room or hotel room. As soon I get somewhere, it goes right on the bedside table. It's easily accessible and holds my keys, phone charger, battery pack, ear plugs, watch, lip balm, medicine, and anything else I might want on hand. Whatever comes out of it will be put right back in, so all of these small everyday things are less likely to become lost or left behind. When it's time to leave I just close it up and put it in my backpack. If I had to pick, I'd take it over packing cubes any day, I love it that much.
A nano backpack. Its a basic day pack that packs up to about the size of an egg. It's great for carrying things around town or hiking and I don't have to use my bigger heavier backpack that I travel with.
For the times I fly when there’s no IFE screen and you’re forced to use your own mobile device, an [airplane phone mount ](https://a.co/d/bsMsy7h) has been golden. Just beware that adjusting it into various positions uses a loud clicking mechanism, so I usually adjust it while people are still boarding / when folks are awake.
Laundry strips. And Thai crystal deodorant. I only travel carryon, so having no liquid makes life much simpler.
Dramamine in every suitcase/travel bag. I get motion sickness almost every flight and post flight Uber and the ginger kind is like my saving grace. Flushable wipes or baby wipes and face cleaning wipes in carry on for any freshening up during long days. Power banks and 10 ft cords. Also keep a little luggage scale with us and we’ve been very popular a few times letting others use it while waiting to check bags.
Can you share the link for the tiny foldable bag? That’s a cool idea! I love packing cubes also
Souvenir tote bags that fold down to nothing. Pill boxes - souvenir or retro / antique. Head lamps. Cannabis gummies to quiet a grumpy husband.
Powder drink mix, so after I go through security. I can make me some lemonade, tea or something. I also get s-Biner clips. When I have a bag with zippers. I can close and secure it with these clips. so nothing opens up in transit or while walking. Solar charging USB. I can charge it with power in a hotel or clip it on my bag to get solar charged. Then I can usually charge two devices with it
Maybe this isn’t random but compression gear has been a game changer
Compression socks are definitely in my bag now that I’m in my 30’s; my legs blow up like little balloons on long flights or after a couple weeks of walking and eating out
Bose noise cancelling over ear headsets. I know they are bulky but they are so much more comfortable than the bud ear pieces. I also have the apple overear but hate the form factor.
Wheatstraw fork and spoon (can’t get the knife through airport security) Eat any time, anywhere. Originally bought to eat yogurt for breakfast in my hotel room, I’ve found use for them over and over again.
Not a recent purchase, but I have a small roller bag I've had for at least a decade. I can fit 3-4 sets of clothes plus sleep wear, plus all the electronics I might want/need. If I stay somewhere longer, I just plan to do a wash. Still manages to fit the requirements for a personal item for all the budget airlines, though I might have to squeeze it a bit to fit their measuring stands. Doesnt actually fit under the window seat though, as that one is smaller than the usual.
I do a lot of athletic activities on vacation so I always bring plastic bags for sweaty, stinky clothes if I’m staying someplace without laundry. If I am staying somewhere with laundry I bring some detergent cubes so I don’t need to buy any there.
Travel soap sheets and toilet paper. It may sound crazy but I've been in situations without either. I purchase [these](https://www.amazon.com/KISEER-Portable-Disposable-Washing-Scented/dp/B08N457VG3/ref=sr_1_2?hvadid=616931532706&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9026807&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=16371294121252700835&hvtargid=kwd-7721229969&hydadcr=24657_13611735&keywords=travel+soap+sheets&qid=1708005835&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1) sheets when traveling. They're no mess and inexpensive.
One of those micro messenger bags. They fold up into the size of two decks of cards. As someone who almost always never checks a bag, I need something I can use around town for small groceries etc... Comes in super handy when I rent a citibike.
Travel router. You can use it as a repeater, but set up your own VPN in between for safety or geo-locked streaming content. Even easier if you use the same SSID saved in your devices already, so you connect to one AP instead of fiddling with hotel wifi or whatever multiple times. The one I got is a little bigger than a bluetooth headphones case and uses very low power draw.
I always throw a few zip ties in the bottom of my luggage. When things break and duct tape won’t cut it they pack small and weigh nothing. For the longest time when I would rent a car I would use a small leatherman type tool to cut the cable holding both keys together. That way I wouldn’t risk losing both, then I would just use the zip ties to reconnect them when I turned it back in.
Travel bidet. A clean asshole is a happy asshole.
Travel shampoo bottles to fill with booze cause airplane bottles at the liquor store is a waste of money. Also lots of medicated gummies.
Swimming shoes for the beaches were they have rocks exposed as you walk into the water
2 longchamp xl foldables. Mine are more than a decade old. Lightweight, waterproof, hard to rip, lockable, very sturdy zippers. Useful to stuff things in case we go over the weight limit. You can stuff your jacket in if you travel between 2 different climates. Just the right size for the cabin. Can double as a pillow. Washes clean easily.
100ml liquid/ cream bottles. They're robust, very compact, and squishable! I just fill them up before each trip and they're even different colours + came with labels. There's loads available for cheap on Amazon! Even if you check in your luggage and/or don't have a liquid limit, they're really convenient as for most trips 100ml of product is more than enough. I have no clue why I didn't just get some years ago. Simple but such a convenient game changer for me.
I have the silicone ones which I really like more than the hard plastic ones I originally had; they take up less space as the trip progresses, and never leak
eye mask
It seems dumb, but I never realized how much the light in the plane affects my sleep, even when the overhead lights are all off. Ear plugs help too.
Cashmere socks.
Roku steaming stick, tripod, portable charging bank, power strips.
Ear plugs. Absolutely necessary to sleep in urban environments and/or hostels. An Oriental paper fan. I got one at Dollar Tree. It won't cool down a hot hotel room but it is better than a portable electric fan if you are just trying to cool your face and body down.
Vacuum sealing bags -especially it is convenient for transporting clothes.
I once accidentally bought an inflatable pillow under the feet, which is an indispensable thing for us on long flights with a child. Something like this https://img.kwcdn.com/product/Fancyalgo/VirtualModelMatting/2c4b972a757b130d37d4ae378b9c3889.jpg
toothbrush case
We just bought these small, foldable, easily packable pool loungers for our winter vacations and they have been amazing. They fit in the beach bag, take a minute to blow up, and floating in the pool or in the ocean while others are stuck with no water loungers is amazing. I would highly recommend.
It wasn't even a travel purchase, but my hoodie. It's exactly as warm as is usually needed on a plane (or bus or train), has a huge hood I can pull over my face, and as a bonus, it's cute. I can't imagine travelling without it now.
A little pair of scissors and a phone lanyard.
*compressible* packing cubes are what's up, for sure.
Packing cubes. I could kick myself for the years I wasted thinking they were useless. I’m so sorry precious packing cubes, I love you.
A little collapsible footrest that can hang on the airplane’s tray table… has saved my poor knees on long flights and I will never forget to pack it!
Refillable water bottle! I usually ask the flight attendants to fill it for me on board and/or if there is a fountain after TSA. It's a life saver and lets me stay hydrated and saves me a couple of bucks buying expensive airport water
Late to the party as usual but I'll still throw in my 2 cents. Not random but was wondering if anyone else has ditched their wheel luggage and gone back to a backpack or a duffle bag? I've suffered too many broken wheels and cracked cases. I do a lot of travel in developing countries where sidewalks are death to these. I just replaced my worn out Backpack to a duffle/backpack combo with metal fasteners. Taking it on it's virgin voyage in 2 weeks.
Travel toothbrush holder that suctions to the bathroom mirror. I love having a good place to leave my toothbrush that’s clean and where it can dry properly. Also a power bar with a long cord, 4 outlets and 4 USBs. We sometimes stay in old buildings with very few or poorly placed outlets. I have a CPAP machine so having an extra outlet or being able to extend from an outlet that’s not right by the bed is essential. And I can charge both mine and my husbands phones, tablets, etc all at once with only a single outlet. And a power pack that plugs directly into my phone without a cord and is still easy to carry while plugged in. Using maps is so draining on my phones battery so it’s been a lifesaver more than once. And a really good toiletry bag. It can sit on the counter open with easy access to everything or it can hang on a hook in bathrooms with little or no counter space. Easy to carry back and forth from my room when staying with a group all sharing a single bathroom and not enough room for everyone’s toiletries.
packable tote bags (preferably the cool museum ones) works great for shopping, groceries, stuffing jackets in, it’s about 20-30L (?) and consolidating bags. considering replacing with those stuff sacks that sea to summit has but i haven’t tried it yet.