When you go travelling, you’re much more reliant on the things that you take with you. But a lot of people don’t get this right and end up spending more money than they intend, just because they need the basics. That’s why it’s best to have all of these handy travel items we talk about in this post.
Universal travel adapter
Perhaps the most important thing you should be taking with you in terms of gadgets is a universal travel adapter. These allow you to travel anywhere in the world and plug in multiple different types of plugs and sockets. They also often have USB ports. Look for a travel adapter that’s set up for most countries, like the UK, EU, US, and Australia. Check that it has a built-in surge protection if you’re going to an area of the world with an unreliable power supply.
Toiletries protection
You’ll also want to look at a guide like Best Travel Bottles for Toiletries in 2026. Many people take their most expensive serums and skin products with them overseas because they want to keep up their routine. What they don’t realise is that these products are often highly sensitive to conditions at 30,000 feet while traveling in an airplane. Many just wind up exploding and going everywhere, causing extreme damage. Travel bottles protect them and prevent this from happening, but you need to invest first.
Portable power bank
It’s also a good idea to bring a portable power bank with you whenever you travel. While plug sockets and charging points are widely available these days, you never know whether you’re going to be able to top up. Having a spare battery around for your phone, your earbuds, or your camera is useful for keeping everything alive and working, so you can just get on with enjoying the time you have. Power banks and batteries are really useful during long layovers and when you’re staying in remote areas.
Memory foam neck pillow
A lot of people take neck pillows with them for long-haul flights to support their necks while they sleep. These are usually made of cheap materials and stuffing.
If you can get a memory foam neck pillow, though, this can really change the game. Memory foam packs down easily but also provides you with just the right amount of support that you need. The shape of the material contours to your neck and head, giving you less stiffness after you finish sleeping.
Frontal headlamp for hikes and adventure travel
A frontal headlamp is an essential item for hikes and adventure travel, especially if you plan on starting early, finishing late, or exploring areas with limited lighting. Unlike handheld flashlights, a headlamp keeps your hands free, which is crucial when climbing, setting up camp, or navigating uneven terrain. Many modern headlamps are lightweight, rechargeable, and offer multiple brightness settings, making them useful for everything from night hikes to emergency situations while travelling.
Blackout sleep mask
Finally, you might want to look into getting a blackout sleep mask. These eliminate all incoming light from the airplane cabin or wherever else you might happen to be. Blackout sleep masks are handy when you’re trying to sleep in an airport with bright white noise. Airport lounges and other areas don’t usually change lighting, so it can make it difficult to sleep unless you completely block it out.
Compression packing cubes
Compression packing cubes are one of the easiest ways to stay organised while travelling. They allow you to separate clothing by type or outfit while also reducing the overall space everything takes up in your suitcase. This is especially helpful if you’re travelling with limited luggage or hopping between destinations. By compressing your clothes, you can pack more efficiently and avoid the frustration of digging through your bag every time you need something.
Reusable water bottle
A reusable water bottle is an essential travel item, especially if you’re spending long days walking around cities or airports. Many airports now have refill stations after security, making it easy to stay hydrated without constantly buying bottled water. An insulated bottle can also keep drinks cold in hot climates or warm during colder trips, saving money and reducing plastic waste at the same time.
RFID-blocking travel wallet
An RFID-blocking travel wallet helps protect your cards and personal information from electronic theft while you’re on the move. These wallets are designed to block scanners that criminals can use to skim card details in crowded places like airports, public transport, or tourist hotspots. Having everything in one secure place also makes it easier to keep track of important documents such as passports, boarding passes, and cash.
Lightweight travel towel
A lightweight travel towel is incredibly useful, even if you’re staying in hotels. These towels dry quickly, pack down small, and are perfect for beach days, hostels, hiking trips, or unexpected situations where towels aren’t provided. They’re also less likely to develop unpleasant smells, which makes them ideal for longer trips where laundry access is limited.
Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs
Whether you’re on a long flight, stuck in a noisy hostel, or trying to rest during a layover, noise-cancelling headphones or quality earplugs can make a huge difference. They help reduce background noise so you can sleep, focus, or relax more easily. For many travellers, this small comfort item can significantly improve overall energy levels and make long journeys much more manageable.
