Hello Readers!
I’ve always believed that the secret to a good trip lies not only in the destination but also in the preparation. Travel has been one of my biggest sources of joy and self-discovery, especially when the world feels overwhelming. From the excitement of exploring new places to the challenges of navigating unfamiliar terrain, I’ve found that having my essential items at the ready helps me stay grounded—and keep anxiety at bay. After years of perfecting my travel routine, I’ve narrowed down my top ten must-haves, items that don’t just help me get by, but genuinely enhance my experience. Whether you’re gearing up for your first solo trip or planning your next great adventure, these essentials have made my journeys smoother, more comfortable, and stress-free.
Best of all? Many of these items are available on Amazon just in time for Prime Deal Days. So let’s dive into my top 10 travel essentials and why they’re my go-tos for every trip, long or short.
Index of Travel Essentials:
- Kindle
- Water Bottle
- Backpack
- Packing Cubes
- Headphones
- Complexion Stick
- Sunscreen
- Belt Bag
- Pill Container
- Portable Charger
Kindle: Your Portable Escape
Why it’s essential: If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s being unprepared for travel downtime. Whether it’s a delay at the airport, a long bus ride between cities, or those quiet moments in a cozy café waiting for the rain to stop, my Kindle is my lifeline. Having hundreds of books at my fingertips feels like a secret weapon against boredom—and let’s be real, sometimes we all need an escape when travel stress hits. Whether it’s the latest mystery, romance, or a stress-busting self-help book, my Kindle is a must on my list of travel essentials. I also keep audible on hand for times when I want to listen to my favorite stories while I run, or I am exploring a new place.
Storytime: On my very first solo trip to Chicago, I naively thought I could grab a good book at the airport. Little did I know that airport bookshops often charge an arm and a leg for bestsellers—and after I paid way too much for a hardcover I didn’t even love, I made a vow to never be without reading material again. My Kindle became my perfect travel partner, one that doesn’t weigh me down. Chicago was also the trip that made me realize how much I love the feeling of independence that comes with solo travel, and with a good book by my side, I felt at home even in the busiest of places.
There’s something about sitting in an unfamiliar park or coffee shop, losing yourself in a story, while still feeling the pulse of the city around you. I’ve devoured books in piazzas in Italy, beneath old oak trees in Texas, and on high-speed trains across Europe. My Kindle lets me travel through time and space without even leaving my seat—something that’s invaluable when the world outside gets overwhelming.
Shop my Kindle on Amazon or join Audible with a 30 Day Free Trial to listen to your favorite books!
Stay Hydrated with a Simple Modern Water Bottle
Why it’s essential: I’ve been through my fair share of water bottles—ones that leak, ones that don’t keep drinks cold, and the ones that are simply too bulky to carry around. That all changed when I discovered the Simple Modern 40 oz water bottles. Not only are they reliable (a huge factor when you’re toting your bag through airports or on long hikes), but it also keeps my water cool for hours, which is a blessing when you’re out all day. Plus, they come in every color you can imagine, which adds a little personality to the practical. I have two different styles that I keep on hand – one with a handle and the Trek Pivot with a flip handle over the top and interchangeable drinking methods (straw and chug) – plus it fits comfortably in the pocket of a backpack when I am hiking or on a plane!
Personal Insight: For me, staying hydrated isn’t just about health—it’s about self-care. When I’m running around a new city, often pushing myself to see and do as much as possible, it’s easy to forget the basics. Having my water bottle with me serves as a reminder to slow down, take a breath, and hydrate. I always keep it in the side pocket of my backpack (another travel essential, but we’ll get to that soon) so it’s easy to grab whether I’m on a train in Italy or walking through a crowded market.
It’s also a great way to cut down on plastic usage. One of my goals as a traveler is to reduce my footprint, and having my Simple Modern bottle means I can fill up at fountains or taps instead of constantly buying plastic bottles.
Shop my 40oz S|M Water Bottle or Shop my S|M Trek Pivot Water Bottle
The Ultimate Travel Companion: My Backpack
Why it’s essential: Over the years, I’ve come to realize that finding the perfect backpack is an art form. It’s more than just a bag; it’s your lifeline during travel. For my trip to Italy, my backpack became a second carry-on, spacious enough to hold my overnight essentials—a change of clothes, some skincare, and even an extra pair of shoes. But what I love most about it is the hidden pocket against my back where I can stash important documents like my passport and travel tickets. Having that pocket gave me such peace of mind, especially when I was in crowded train stations or navigating busy airports.
Storytime: During my 18-day trip through Italy, I was always on the move, from Sorrento to Venice, often hopping on early morning trains or catching a local tram. My backpack was a lifesaver. One memorable moment was on my train ride from Milan to Venice. I had packed an extra outfit and some overnight essentials in case of a delay (which, let’s face it, happens more often than we’d like when traveling). Sure enough, the train was delayed due to a nationwide railway strike, and I ended up needing to take the time to refresh and clean up before heading out. But because I had my backpack, complete with a fresh change of clothes and my travel-size skincare and a foldable mirror, I was able to relax and explore Venice late that night without feeling disheveled.
Shop my favorite backpack on Amazon
Organize Like a Pro with Packing Cubes
Why it’s essential: If you’re someone who’s tried packing without cubes, let me tell you—you’re missing out. I used to be the traveler whose suitcase looked like a tornado hit it halfway through a trip, but ever since I started using packing cubes, my life has changed. They keep everything organized, from my daytime outfits to my lounging clothes. But the real game-changer? Using one cube for dirty clothes. After a few days of travel, separating clean from dirty clothes keeps everything smelling fresh, especially if you’re on a longer trip like my Italian adventure.
Personal Insight: Packing cubes give me control over something that can easily feel overwhelming. Travel can be chaotic, but with these little cubes of organization, I feel like I’ve got a grip on things. During my Italy trip, as the days went by and my suitcase filled with souvenirs, the packing cubes made it easy to keep track of my outfits and essentials without digging through everything. Plus, they’re perfect for organizing by category—one for tops, one for bottoms, and one for shoes. It might sound like a small detail, but trust me, it makes such a difference when you’re unpacking in a new hotel room every few nights.
Keep the Tunes Going with My Powerbeats Pro and Shokz Headphones
Why they’re essential: I never travel without two pairs of headphones: my Powerbeats Pro and Shokz bone conduction headphones. The Powerbeats are my go-to for long flights, blocking out the engine noise and letting me sink into a playlist or podcast. They help me create a little bubble of calm, which is invaluable when I’m traveling through busy airports or trying to unwind at the end of a long day.
On the flip side, my Shokz headphones are perfect for when I’m out exploring, especially when I’m running or walking solo. These headphones sit outside your ears, using bone conduction technology, which means you can still hear ambient sounds—like cars, footsteps, or conversations. For a solo female traveler, they give me peace of mind. Whether I’m listening to an audiobook or my favorite playlist while running along the water in Bellagio, they let me stay aware of my surroundings.
Personal Insight: During my solo travels, especially through Italy, I used both sets of headphones constantly. On my train rides from Rome to Florence, I would pop in my Powerbeats and tune out the world with a soothing podcast or an audiobook. In contrast, while jogging in Milan or walking through Venice, I used the Shokz headphones to stay safe while still enjoying my favorite tunes. They truly serve different purposes, but both have become high priority items on my travel essentials list.
Shop my Powerbeats Pro on Amazon and Shop my Shokz headphones on Amazon
Skincare Essential: The Merit Complexion Stick
Why it’s essential: If you’re like me and want to maintain a simple yet effective skincare and makeup routine while traveling, the Merit Complexion Stick is a game changer. It’s both a concealer and foundation in one, which means I don’t have to lug around multiple products in my already crowded toiletries bag. The stick’s small size makes it perfect for touch-ups on the go, and it blends effortlessly. Whether I’m hopping off a plane after a red-eye or preparing for a night out in Rome, this little stick helps me look refreshed without the fuss of a full face of makeup. Trying to look put together is a travel essential in and of itself for me, and this one product makes everything easier.
Personal Insight: One thing I’ve learned from years of travel is that less is often more. In my early days of jet-setting, I’d pack an entire makeup bag full of products, only to use maybe two or three items. Now, I keep it streamlined. The Merit Complexion Stick became a staple on my Italy trip. After a long day exploring the Colosseum in Rome or trekking through the hills of Sorrento, I’d come back to my hotel room feeling tired and a little sun-kissed (read: sweaty). A few dabs of the complexion stick on my cheeks and under my eyes, and I instantly felt more polished and refreshed. I especially love that it’s so quick and easy—because let’s be honest, when you’re traveling, you don’t always have the time (or energy) for a full makeup routine.
You can find the Merit Complexion Stick at Sephora – and they can help you find your perfect shade!
Don’t Forget Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon & Coola Scalp Sunscreen
Why they’re essential: Sun protection is one of the most important (yet often overlooked) parts of any travel routine. The Beauty of Joseon sunscreen has become my go-to, not just because of its viral K-beauty status, but because it actually does what it promises—provides lightweight, non-greasy protection without that dreaded white cast. Perfect for everyday use, whether I’m strolling through a sunny piazza or lounging at the beach. And for those extra sunny days, especially during hikes or beach outings, I make sure to bring along Coola’s Scalp Sunscreen. Protecting your scalp is something we often forget about, but nothing ruins a trip faster than a painful sunburn on your part line. This is just as much a health precaution as a travel essential – so stock up!
Personal Insight: My trip to Sorrento was filled with sunshine and salty sea breezes, but it was also the kind of trip that could have left me sunburned and miserable if I wasn’t careful. I slathered on my Beauty of Joseon sunscreen every morning before heading out to explore lemon groves or sit by the beach with a book. The formula is so light that it never felt like I was wearing sunscreen, which is crucial for long travel days. And while walking around Lake Como later in my trip, I was so thankful I’d packed the Coola scalp sunscreen—I could feel the Italian sun bearing down on me, and without that extra protection, I’m sure I would’ve ended the day with a red, stinging scalp.
Shop Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen on Amazon or Shop Coola Scalp Sunscreen on Amazon
The Perfect On-the-Go Belt Bag
Why it’s essential: I’ve always been a fan of belt bags for travel—they’re sleek, they’re secure, and they let you keep your hands free for more important things (like snapping photos or grabbing a gelato!). But what makes a belt bag really essential for solo female travelers is its security features. I’ve added a simple but effective hack to mine: a small zip tie threaded through the buckle. This makes it nearly impossible for someone to quickly unsnap it in crowded places like train stations or markets, giving me extra peace of mind when navigating busy tourist areas. And lets all be honest here – I have a Lululemon bag, and I LOVE it. However, I bought my sister one off amazon, and I genuinely cannot tell the difference between the two aside from the price tag.
Personal Insight: My belt bag was my constant companion during my Italy trip, whether I was wandering the streets of Venice or hiking along the Amalfi Coast. It’s where I kept my most important items—my phone, passport, and credit cards—so I always had them close by. One of my favorite memories was walking through a bustling street market in Florence, where I picked up handmade leather goods and fresh biscotti. With my belt bag strapped securely to my waist, I never had to worry about my belongings, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience.
Travel Hack: If you’re ever feeling extra cautious about pickpockets, especially in high-traffic tourist spots, threading a small zip tie through your belt bag’s buckle can add an extra layer of security. It’s a small trick, but it’ll make it harder for anyone to tamper with it unnoticed. Plus, it’s easy enough to remove once you’re back in a more relaxed setting.
Pill Container for Peace of Mind
Why it’s essential: Traveling often means being out of your routine, and for me, that can sometimes throw off my self-care, including things like taking vitamins or medications. That’s why a small, portable pill container has become an essential part of my travel kit. I love having a discreet way to store any daily medications, supplements, or even emergency headache medicine while on the go. It’s compact enough to slip into my belt bag or backpack, so I never have to dig through my suitcase for a pain reliever after a long day of walking.
Personal Insight: During my Italy trip, this little container was a lifesaver more than once. After spending a day walking through the Roman Forum under the hot sun, I could feel a headache coming on, and knowing I had my pain relievers helped me push through until I could relax in a cool café. I also like to stay on top of my wellness routine while traveling, and having a few supplements on hand (like vitamin C for immune support) especially after long-haul flights. All of this being said, I am someone who deals with anxiety and travel tends to exacerbate that. So, I also keep my anxiety meds on hand – they are an as-needed precaution, but I don’t go anywhere without them, and this container keeps them discreet. I feel like its a bonus when travel essentials provide peace of mind, while also maintaining some sense of privacy.
Shop my pill container on Amazon
Never Run Out of Power with a Portable Charger
Why it’s essential: Nothing is more anxiety-inducing than watching your phone’s battery slowly dwindle while you’re lost in a new city or trying to capture a perfect sunset. That’s why I always keep a portable charger with me. It’s small, lightweight, and can fully charge my phone at least twice before needing a recharge itself. Whether I’m relying on my phone for directions, translation apps, or snapping endless photos of street art and café culture, a portable charger keeps me connected and stress-free.
Personal Insight: On my first night out in Rome, I learned the hard way just how crucial a portable charger can be. I was navigating the city, my phone was my lifeline for directions, and before I knew it, my battery was down to 10% with half the day left to explore. Ever since that trip, I’ve never traveled without one. During my trip to Italy, Chicago, and everywhere else I have gone, this little device was a lifesaver, especially in places like Venice where getting lost is part of the charm. I never had to worry about running out of battery while using Google Maps to find hidden bakeries or texting friends I’d met along the way making it a favorite a trusted part of my travel essentials countdown!
It also came in handy during long train rides when outlets weren’t always available. With my portable charger, I could scroll through travel blogs, plan my next meal stop, or listen to music without worrying about draining my battery before reaching my destination.
Shop my portable charger on Amazon
Conclusion:
Packing for a trip is more than just stuffing clothes into a suitcase. It’s about preparing yourself for every adventure, challenge, and moment that might come your way. Over the years, these essentials have become my trusted companions, helping me navigate through foreign streets, long flights, and the occasional travel hiccup with ease. Whether it’s my Kindle keeping me company on a solo lunch by Lake Como or my belt bag giving me peace of mind while shopping in crowded markets, each item on this list has a story tied to it—and a purpose that goes beyond convenience.
I hope this list helps you prepare for your next journey, and who knows? Maybe these essentials will become as irreplaceable for you as they are for me. Safe travels and happy packing!
Warmly,
Rae
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