Travel Gear I Actually
Travel With
I’m not a gear person. I pack light, I buy local when I need to, and I only bring what I’ve genuinely used on multiple trips. Everything on this page earns its place in my bag.
Travel Gear
If you’re serious about making the most of your travels, these essentials are non-negotiable. They’ve been tried, tested, and loved on countless adventures. Trust me, they’re game-changers!
When it comes to traveling, having the right gear and tech can make all the difference. Over my years of exploring the world, I’ve curated a list of must-have travel essentials that I never leave home without. From versatile travel gear to the latest tech gadgets that keep me connected and capture every moment, these items are my go-to recommendations.
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Travel Essentials
Travel Carry-On Backpack
Fits under the seat or in the overhead bin on nearly all budget airlines, including the stingy ones. You’d be surprised by what fits inside. Now I enjoy being a carry-on-only traveler.
Anti-Theft Zipper Clip
Clip your bag zippers together so they can’t be opened without you noticing. Small, lightweight, and effective, especially useful in busy markets, transport hubs, and tourist areas.
Reusable Water Bottle
The removable bottom makes it actually easy to clean, no more mystery mold in the bottom of your bottle. Keeps drinks cold for hours, which matters enormously in hot climates.
Portable Power Bank
A dead phone abroad isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a safety issue when you’re navigating alone. Get one with enough capacity to charge your phone at least twice.
Universal Travel Adapter
Works in virtually every country and charges multiple devices simultaneously via USB. Buy one good adapter, and you’ll never need another.
Travel Flashlight
Trust me, you don’t want to use your phone as a flashlight (I’ll share a story later). This will come in handy in many situations. You’ll thank me later.
Travel Tech & Electronics
Vlogging Camera
Lightweight enough to carry everywhere without noticing it, powerful enough to replace your phone camera for longer content. Flip screen makes solo content easy.
GoPro
Waterproof, shockproof, and captures experiences your regular camera can’t. Hands-free mounting means you can document snorkeling, hiking, and anything active without missing the moment.
Portable Hard Drive
Years of travel photos are irreplaceable. Cloud storage is great until it’s full, slow, or inaccessible. A physical backup drive is cheap insurance against losing everything.
Apple Air Tags
Slip one into your checked bag, your backpack, or even your wallet. If something gets lost or stolen, you’ll know exactly where it is. Small piece of mind that costs almost nothing.
Data Blocker
Plugs between your phone and any public USB charging port, blocking data transfer while still allowing charging. Prevents “juice jacking” hackers from accessing your data through public chargers.
Cable Organizer Bag
All your cables, chargers, earbuds, and adapters in one place. When you’re packing and unpacking every few days, this is the difference between a calm morning and a frantic one.
Ready to take the leap?
Start with my FREE Move Abroad Checklist. Everything you need to sort before you leave, from someone who learned most of it the hard way.
