5 Less Common Essentials Every Traveler Needs
If you travel frequently for work or vacation, chances are you have a set list of essentials you pack every time. While toiletries and clothes are must-haves you don’t want to forget, adding other things can make your journey more comfortable and secure.
Adding these often-overlooked items to your bag will reduce some of the stress of travel and let you look forward to your next adventure.
Portable Power Bank with Multiple Ports
Portable chargers remove the panic of finding a socket at the airport when your phone or laptop runs out of juice. Airports often lack sufficient charging stations, and many are faulty on the plane seat. A power bank will keep your devices charged on the go.
When shopping for a portable charger, look for a model that can charge multiple devices simultaneously with different USB ports, including USB-C. It should be lightweight and easily fit in your carry-on luggage without taking up excessive room for quick access in the air. Some chargers offer a wall plug option, which is handy for waiting times on transfer flights.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The noise of public transit can make concentrating on work or drifting off to sleep impossible. Noise-canceling headphones reduce the ambient noise of busy spaces while providing clear podcast or music audio.
A high-quality pair of headphones will be comfortable for hours and have features you can access without looking. Models with a wired mode will allow you to access the in-flight entertainment system. Earbuds are smaller alternatives that take up less space in your carry-on and can fit in a jacket pocket.
Digital Security and Online Privacy with a VPN
Using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks can leave your devices vulnerable to data breaches and cyberattacks. Hackers can inject malware and steal passwords to access your online accounts. VPNs (virtual private networks) establish an encrypted connection that masks your IP address and lets you sidestep website blocks and unavailability in other countries.
With a VPN, your browser history and location are untraceable because your data is scrambled into unreadable code for anyone without an encryption key. If you’re working remotely, you can access company resources over a private connection without worrying about putting company data at risk on public Wi-Fi.
Packing Cubes for Organization and Space Saving
Consider packing cubes if you struggle with compartmentalizing your clothing and other items in a suitcase. They compress clothes to simplify packing, which may allow you to use a smaller bag.
With several packing cubes, you can categorize your items into accessories, tops, and bottoms, keeping your bag tidy. Rolling your clothes, rather than folding them, into packing cubes can minimize wrinkles for outings after you arrive. Some are even waterproof to stop leaky water bottles from dampening your belongings.
Travel Pillows (Beyond the U-shape)
While U-shaped neck pillows are popular, there are alternative designs that offer better neck and head support. Wraparound pillows twist around your neck like a scarf for a more snug feel and double the support, and mini classic pillows tuck nicely into hand luggage.
If you’re prone to drooping forward as you nod off, j-pillows have a chin support to keep your head upright. Body slings are great for side sleepers, providing a space to lean against and separation between you and your neighbor.
