Five Items You Shouldn’t Travel Without

The past couple of years have been completely chalk-full of turmoil in just about every single way imaginable. From businesses shutting down, to the emergence of the remote-work-world, to the closing down of travel, these last couple years haven’t been a cake-walk in any sense of the phrase. That being said, the COVID-19 pandemic which started all of this off is finally drifting further and further into the rearview mirror. As such, industries like travel have started to slowly open back up again this year. 

In turn, airports flooded, and the travel industry didn’t take long to once again start booming. That being said, with the majority of people going about 2+ years without traveling at all, a lot of people have needed some gentle reminders on travel essentials. 

Whether this is your first trip out of state, or you’re taking a plane overseas and traveling abroad, this is a short little check-list of essential items that you shouldn’t travel without. 

1. Passport or ID

The first item on the list is going to be an obvious but crucial one. If you’re traveling internationally, you’re going to have to bring along your passport. This is to allow you access both on and off the plane, and is likely the only way you’re going to be able to return home hassle-free. You really do not want to show up for an international flight without your passport, as you’ll never be allowed to board the plane. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that your passport needs to be valid for your international flight. However, this isn’t as simple as it sounds like it should be. This is only because the expiration date on your passport is different than when your passport becomes invalid for international travel. 

Most countries have a 6-month rule. This means that your passport expiration date cannot be any earlier than 6 months after your initial flight into the country. As such, be very mindful of your passport expiration date and try to get it renewed well in advance to avoid any unnecessary hick-ups in your travel plans.

If you aren’t traveling internationally, you’ll still need an ID and a passport is very effective, but a drivers license or other State ID will work if you’re flying domestically. 

2. Weather-Appropriate Items

In addition to your proper travel documents, you’re going to want to pack some essentials for yourself. This includes items that will be weather appropriate for your travel destination. For instance, if you’re going to be spending some time in London, a small umbrella makes perfect sense to add into your luggage and for your trip. Even if you don’t pack one, you may want to pick one up once you arrive, as London is known for its rainy-days. 

There are a plethora of other destinations that are just as rainy, and even rainier, than London, so be mindful of that and you may want to throw a small umbrella in your carry-on for a just-in-case situation. 

3. A Water Bottle

Hydration is one of the most important parts of the staying healthy equation. As such, it doesn’t matter where you’re traveling, you should always bring a refillable water bottle with you on your trip. This will encourage you to drink water regularly during your travels. 

Not only that, but it will also help you avoid spending needlessly on water-bottles as you go. Finally, you’ll actively be taking a step to reduce your personal carbon footprint, which is never a bad thing. 

4. Your Smart Phone

In today’s day and age our smartphones are just about as powerful as mini computers. From being hot-spot enabled, to featuring three different cameras, and having robust internet abilities, our smart phone technology really does seem capable of doing it all. 

Not only that, but smart phones are also crucial in emergency settings. Always travel with a phone so you’re able to communicate with the people you’re traveling alongside, as well as friends, family, and loved ones back home. For your piece of mind and theirs. 

5. Some Emergency Cash

Finally, it’s always smart to have a bit of emergency cash on you when you travel. This is especially the case when you’re going on longer trips, or flying internationally, as you’ll want to have a bit of funds protected in case your wallet gets lost or stolen along with your credit and debit cards.

A few Last Thoughts

Packing for a trip is always exciting and brings with it a rush of emotions and feelings. The last thing you want to do is ruin a trip, vacation, or any other travel journey by being unprepared or showing up without the essentials. Don’t forget to check your passport expiration date and get it renewed well in advance, always bring a water bottle, and never forget your smartphone. Now get out there and have fun traveling the world!