Because they always make the trip from point A to point B easier, the best travel accessories are also the ideal travel companions. Those are the things that help you stay organised and feel relaxed, well, and amused when travelling (or flying). Some may remain in your personal belongings all year long, anticipating your next journey with the same passion, while you may use others on your everyday commute.
We’ve compiled a list of every accessory we consider a definite need, including tech devices to keep your electronics charged and luggage accessories to save overweight baggage fees. These are the items we pack frequently and hate leaving home without. (Many also make excellent, practical travel presents for other wanderers.)
What is the most essential thing for travellers? Since there’s nothing more important than staying hydrated at all times, the answer would be a reusable water bottle to the rescue. If you use a sleek water bottle daily, it can also double as your hydration travel companion. If not, think of investing in one so you stop throwing your money on overpriced plastic bottles at the airport. Having a hydration buddy at your reach of hand won’t only help you set a good base to reach your drinking water goals, improving your overall health but also reduce plastic waste.
What’s the second most important liquid for oh so many of us? You guessed it, caffeine nuts, it’s the world’s most beloved non-alcoholic drink, the coffee. And even if you’re more of a tea or cocoa person, we’ve got your back. With reusable and resilient travel cups, you can have your favourite caffeine fuel to keep you awake on those long road trips and airport hours. Next thing you know, you’re sipping hot cocoa sitting by a campfire under the stars or waking up the next morning to a cup of coffee by the river.
When choosing the best travel mug, whether as an adventure mate or a busy-day staple, you must consider several things, including material, size, design, and insulation.
While stainless steel and ceramic travel cups are durable, BPA-free, and mostly dishwasher-safe, glass or recycled plastics are more acceptable options for eco-conscious wanderers. The materials are also somewhat influential insulation-wise but not necessarily. For example, stainless steel mugs retain more heat than glass options but design is also important, whether double-wall or vacuum-insulated.
If the cup shakes, a closed lid won’t spill thanks to a leakproof seal. If you drop the mug or knock it over, a spill-proof seal prevents leaks; these seals usually have a push button. Additionally, a decent mug should be simple to lock and unlock with one hand, as well as to open and close. Opt for a travel cup that’s simple to disassemble for cleaning for enhanced ease of use when on the go.
Most of us won’t board a plane without headphones, especially noise-cancelling ones, whether you want to watch a movie, listen to music, or simply block out noisy neighbours. Have your favourite with you, along with a pair of wired earbuds. If you don’t have a pair of favourites and are on a quest to find one, design is the first factor you should consider. That not only refers to comfort and fit (ergonomics) but also to quality and implemented controls. Noise-cancelling performance and other handy features are also good to check.
A tote is the perfect travelling bag because it’s spacious enough to hold everything you’ll need on a flight and is typically rather flexible, allowing you to fit it beneath the seat without taking up all of your foot space. Opt for one with a zipper (or at least a magnetic snap clasp) to keep everything safe in case the bag topples over, as well as cosy shoulder straps in case you fill it to overflow with snacks. A trolley sleeve, which you can use to slide over your bag as you travel through the airport, is another handy feature to look for.
These are essential for staying organised and preventing spillage in your luggage. Opt for water-resistant materials and substantial storage space for your toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, soaps, and other items. Depending on your destination and the people you’re travelling with, you can choose a hanging bag that keeps everything organised and off the bathroom counter. In addition to being visually appealing, clear toiletry bags are useful for nervous travellers who want to confirm what has already been packed.
Never undervalue the importance of a well-made packing cube. These compact yet powerful travel essentials help you and your bag stay much more organised. In the case of compressive cubes, they also allow you to fit more in your baggage. They come in various sizes, from tiny cubes for socks and underwear to larger ones for jeans and heavier sweaters. You can also use them to keep clean and filthy clothes apart on your way home.
Instead of purchasing generic shampoo and body wash in plastic minis each time you travel, invest in a set of leakproof travel bottles that will enable you to take your favourite products from home with you. Capsule-like bottles are excellent for keeping small loose goods like vitamins and bobby pins in addition to hygiene and cosmetics.