In the frenzy packing up your bags and suitcases before a big trip, even the most experienced of backpackers lose sight of important things. TheGearHunt says: “If you want to have a successful hiking trip you need four things: a GPS device, good hiking boots, strong trekking poles and a good hiking backpack. ” While traveling though, there’s a list of specific essentials that every globe-trotter needs to have on their person at any time. These indispensable items can make even difficult trips nearly effortless. Before you leave, snag your favorite comfortable backpack, and make sure you’ve got all these indispensables before you grab your things and head out the door.
- photo by Siim Teller
1. Documentation/Identification
These are arguably the most important items you’ll need to get around while traveling. It’s important that all documentation is kept organized ina cozy, designated spot in your backpack. You’ll need your:
- Airline Tickets
- Passport
- Visas
- Insurance Card/Health Card
- Hotel Confirmation
- Itinerary
- Driver’s License
- Multiple copies of all of the above
2. Emergency Cash
It’s always best to be prepared for the worst while traveling, and it’s easy for someone to misplace their wallet or cash. Any number of things could happen, and this is why it’s really important for a traveler to have:
- $50-100 in small bills and change
- Bank Card
- Copies of the Bank Card
- Credit Card(s)
3. Extra Clothes
Extra clothes are a total necessity, whether you’re traversing the snowy mountains of Tibet, or hot Nevada deserts. Bring along an extra set of clothes that can be easily compacted into the bottom of your bag.
4. Medicine
Medicine is a serious requisite, especially if you have any outstanding medical conditions that require important medication. Even if you don’t though, it’s important to have simple things like ibuprofen, anti-motion sickness pills, and other over-the-counters.
5. Toiletries
Sometimes, it’s hard to catch a long shower, or you might have to wait for hours in an airport after delays. It’s important to bring along your bathroom necessities should you want to freshen up, like:
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste
- Soap
- Mouthwash
- Electric Shaver
- Contact lenses/fluid
- Floss
6. Power Converter
A power converter will allow you to charge up all your electric appliances, and will save you money from having to rent them at hotels or hostels. This is a really important investment that will pay for itself after awhile, if not only by way of convenience. Also, using renewable energy technologies, many of these chargers can now run self-sustainably, meaning you can travel without needing to worry about using mains electricity at all.
7. Cellphone
This one is pretty straightforward–in the event that you ever need to make an emergency call, or check something on the internet, or any number of things, this is a very potent lifeline for any traveler.
8. Food
While sightseeing and journeying all over the world, it’s not infrequent for a traveler to be far from places that readily sell food. For this reason, it’s good to have a stash of carbohydrate-laden snacks and drinks to keep a traveler hydrated and energized.
9. Camera
This one’s a necessity, keep track of your trip for future generations! Snap away.
10. Entertainment
Waiting for any transportation is boring all over the world. Keep something interesting to pass the time with! Bring some light books, portable music, or your laptop.
