1. Lysol Spray & Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel- “Cute & Clean” - There is nothing worse than getting sick while traveling and losing days of your trip battling a stomach bug or fighting off a cold. I use my hand sanitizer at least 10 times a day when traveling, especially before meals and when taking public transport. I use Lysol spray generously on door handles, bathroom stalls and anything else that is touched by many hands (think: seatbelts, airplane tray tables, condiments)
2. Power Socket Convertor - “Stay Connected” - I highly recommend purchasing a universal travel adaptor. The plug I have can be used in over 150 countries. It also has USB ports as well, which is a lifesaver when needing to charge multiple electronics. I swear by this one!
3. Ear Plugs - “Shhhhhh” - As a frequent hostel stayer, I had to learn the hard way that earplugs are a necessity, especially if you are a light sleeper like myself. When you have up to 15 people in one room, the odds are high that somebody is going to be a snorer. There is nothing worse than losing sleep when you have an early excursion or flight because of drunk roommates talking to loudly or someone snoring like a freight train in the bunk below. I also use my earplugs on long flights or bus/train journeys. P.S - On long flights, most airlines give you earplugs for FREE!
4. Snacks - “Fight the Hangry” - I met a fellow solo traveler in Guatemala that literally saved my life with her snacks. We were on our way to an early hike and we missed breakfast. I recommend nuts, granola, protein bars, fruit snacks. These will help you in those in between meal times not to spend loads of money and to keep your energy high on hikes/excursions.
5. Book/Journal - “No Wifi?!” - There may be moments on your journey where the wifi signal is barely strong enough to send a “I made it” text yet alone allow you to binge watch Netflix. Terrifying, right? There also may be times (or at least I hope so ) that you will actually WANT to unplug from the digital world. During these times, it’s great to pull out a journal to jot down your thoughts or lose yourself in a few chapters of your favorite book. If traveling for a long time, I don’t suggest bringing a lot of books because it will just weigh down your backpack. When you finish your book, swap with another traveler! That’s how I’ve read some really interesting books that I don’t think I would have selected myself.
6. Lock - “Protect Your Sh%$” - If you plan to stay in any type of shared living space, I recommend bringing a small combination lock (keys get lost). Most hostels have lockers in your room where you can secure your valuables. Locks are available at a cost, so it’s best to just have your own because those fees can add up on a long journey.
7. Cocoon - Sleep Tight, Cuz Bedbugs Bite”- So my biggest fear when I first started traveling was sleeping in a bed filled with bed bugs. The first time I saw a girl in my hostel using a cocoon I knew my travel life had been changed! So what is it? It’s basically a thin sheet-like sleeping bag that you can sleep in if you don’t completely trust the bed sheets. It’s machine washable and lightweight so super easy to pack. Clear here to buy!
8. Money Belt- “Keep your coins close!” - Money belts aren’t super fashionable, but they are meant to be worn under your clothes so who cares! On my first solo trip throughout Southeast Asia, I practically lived in my money belt. You never know what could happen - especially when travelling in countries where robberies are prevalent. Keep all bank cards, large sums of money and your passport in your belt. Keep smaller amounts of cash in your purse or bookbag to access when you need it while you are out (such as for taxis, etc) Do not reveal your money belt in public because often times tourists are watched and then targeted. Check Out My Fav Here!
9. First Aid Kit - “Accidents Happen” - When traveling it’s best to be prepared, especially while in remote locations with limited medical resources or countries where you do not speak the language. I will never forget trying to pantomime diarrhea to a pharmacist while traveling in Vienna, Austria. My “kit” is actually a zip-lock bag full of bandaids, pain relievers, allergy medicine (whether you typically have allergies or not), antacids and anti-nausea pills.
10. Shower Flip Flops - “Happy Feet” - I typically stay in hostels so for me shower flip flops are a MUST. In some hostels, I’ve legit felt like I could eat off the floor and others I’ve slept in my clothes and prayed for morning. In shared living spaces, I recommend shower shoes just for sanitation and convenience. You don’t want to walk to the showers in the same sandals or sneakers you’ve been travelling in all day.
Love these ideas! I’ll be sure to use them during my next vacation!