Whether you travel frequently for work, are a bona fide globetrotter, or even if you’re ready to make the most of your year abroad, knowing what to pack can make a huge difference. 

While you may not need to bring 20 different outfits or every beauty product you own, there are a few things you need to make sure you have on your list. 

So, what belongs in your suitcase?

Read on to learn more about the travel essentials that no one should ever leave home without. 

1. Outlet Adapters

You need to be able to charge your electronics and of course, use your all-important hair dryer when you travel. 

However, remember that electrical outlets are often quite different from country to country. 

Make sure that you get a few outlet adapters before your flight. Look for all-in-one options that you can configure to work anywhere in the world.

All you have to do is plug the adapter into the wall, and plug your electronics into the adapter, and everything should work normally. 

2. Portable Phone Chargers

When you’re traveling to a new place, we’re willing to bet a lot of money that your phone’s GPS system and Google Maps are your lifelines. 

What happens if your phone dies in a place where you don’t speak the language, and you have no idea how to get home? 

Though everything would likely work out in the end, it would definitely throw a wrench in your travel plans. That’s why portable phone chargers — and ones with USB slots, too — should be high up on your list of travel essentials. 

3. Wearable Money Pouches 

Foreign transaction fees are expensive, and the currency exchange rate you get abroad can often leave you feeling burned. 

Your best bet is to take out as much cash as possible before you travel. However, you’re definitely worried about how you can protect your cash from getting lost or stolen. 

Enter one of the most important international travel essentials: wearable money pouches. 

Look for other ways you can hide your money in a belt, in socks, and even in your underwear. You’ll feel much safer knowing only you know where your money is.

4. Compression Socks

No one enjoys long flights — but if your ankles and legs swell up, or if you have health conditions that can interfere with your blood flow and circulation, the situation is more serious. 

Plus, even if you’re healthy, you don’t want to be in pain when you first step off the plane. 

Invest in a pair of compression socks to wear on the flight. They may not be glamorous, but your body will thank you.

5. A Travel Laundry Kit

Doing laundry is definitely one of the most annoying travel necessities. 

Hotel laundry service is incredibly expensive, but you also want to be able to do laundry on vacation so you can save room in your suitcase. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel laundry kits available for you to slip into your bag. Most uses activated charcoal to give you a laundromat level of clean without having to pay exorbitant prices. 

6. A Foldable Umbrella

It sounds simple, but an umbrella is one of the most often overlooked travel items — and one that can really make or break your trip. 

Get a foldable one that you can carry with you at all times. 

This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your destination come rain or shine. 

7. Language Apps

Showing even an attempt at speaking the native language of a country you’re visiting can go a long way. 

In addition to showing respect to the culture, you’ll also be able to clearly ask for what you need. Download a few language apps and dictionaries before you go. Study up on some essential words/phrases during the flight. 

You can also just point to the words in the app to locals if you struggle with pronunciation. 

8. A Collapsible Sunhat

Next up on our list of travel essentials? 

A collapsible sunhat. 

Getting a crushable option means you don’t have to worry about having to choose between wearing it or carrying it onboard. Plus, especially if the weather is a bit warmer than you expected, you’ll be incredibly grateful you have a hat.

Don’t forget to toss in some sunscreen, too. 

9. A Good Book

Whether you’re loyal to paperbacks or if you’re obsessed with your eReader, few travel necessities are as important as a good book. 

There will come a time when you’re stuck on the runway, help up in a line, or just trapped in a place without Internet access. Having a great book to distract you will help you to keep your cool. 

Plus, you can read novels about travel to inspire your next vacation or get a local’s look inside the city you’re currently visiting. 

Don’t Forget to Pack These Travel Essentials

Don’t leave home without any of these travel essentials so that you can enjoy your trip, stay safe, and adapt to changing conditions. 

None of these items take up too much space or are especially costly, so there’s no reason not to throw then in your suitcase. 

Need more tips and tricks about how to get the most out of your next vacation? Want to know what to look for in the ideal travel buddy? Curious about how to beat the crowds if you’re going to a touristy area? 

Our blog has got you covered for all that and more. 

Keep checking back in with us to make sure every vacation is the best it could be.