1. Passport & Travel documents
Your passport is by far the most important thing to pack for your travels, purely because you won’t get far without it. Always check to ensure you have at least 6 months left on your passport before it’s expiration date, else you may need to order a new one prior to travel.
Furthermore, other travel documents you will need on your checklist, depending on destination, may include;
- Visas
- Vaccinations and health precautions
- Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
- Travel insurance
- Emergency contact details
As with all holidays, research your destination and check the government website for any latest travel advice for the country you are visiting.
2. Travel Pillow
A travel pillow has a number of benefits, with the most obvious being comfort. A good travel pillow will likely help you fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer, but be aware a softer outer material may be preferable as it’ll feel nice on your skin and won’t trap heat.
3. In-flight entertainment
Depending on the length of your flight, most airlines will offer a form of in-flight entertainment, however given the way technology has advanced, most people will have an iPad or a Kindle with which they can catch up on their favourite series, film or book. That said, with limited Wi-Fi connectivity, be sure to download any films or series to ensure you can watch offline.
4. Medicines or painkillers
Different countries have different rules and regulations, so always double check the types of medicine allowed to be taken in to the country, as well as the quantity. If you do carry medicine in your hand luggage keep it with a copy of your prescription and do check your airline’s regulations before travelling.
5. Hand sanitizer
Given recent events such as covid-19, hand sanitizer is key in ensuring the prevention of illness or disease, while also offering portability while travelling. This is very important given the amount of people and places you’ll likely pass on your travels.
6. Chargers (including international adaptors)
The last thing you’ll want is your phone, iPad or kindle running out of battery while traveling. Most airports have shops where you can purchase one, but it’s definitely worth packing one in your hand luggage or bringing a portable charging pack.
7. Sunglasses
Remember to pack a pair of sunglasses whether you are heading to the beach or for some winter sun. In addition you might want a slightly cheaper pair in case of any day trips as the last thing you want is to lose your favourite sunglasses.
8. Ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones
Foam earplugs will no doubt help you get a decent sleep without interruption, while having noise cancelling headphones will allow you to watch your favourite shows without the distraction of outside noise.
9. Wash bag
If you are travelling on multiple flights, across multiple continents or have a prolonged stay in a particular destination, you might want to freshen up and by taking a wash bag in your hand luggage you can.
10. Compression socks
Given how long some flights can be, it’s important to keep circulation flowing and not let your legs get tired and achy. Some benefits include;
- Boosting circulation in your legs.
- Supports veins, muscles and joints.
- Reduction of leg swelling.
- Prevents deep vein thrombosis in your legs.
- Promotes comfort.
