Travelling soon? Here is a travel essentials list with 20 of the best travel essentials you didn’t think you needed!

Traveling can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out what you really need to bring. From airplane must-haves to carry-on essentials for short flights, the choices seem endless. That’s why I’ve gathered a list of 20 travel essentials that you probably didn’t even realize you needed.

Now, you won’t need all 20 items, but I’m confident you’ll find at least five that will make your journey smoother and stress-free. In this post, you’ll discover everything from long-haul travel essentials to key items for any trip. My goal is to make finding the perfect travel essentials simple and straightforward, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure!

After traveling several times, I can confidently say that these travel essentials will make a difference. You’ll likely discover something you didn’t even realize you needed—just like I did!

This post is all about travel essentials.

Don’t forget to save this travel essentials pin on your Pinterest to come back to later!

Travel Essentials List

1. Portable Steamer

I’ve recommended this portable steamer in several of my blog posts and to many of my Instagram followers because it’s truly a must-have travel essential. While some hotels offer irons, many don’t—or you have to request one, which can take time (who wants to wait?).

Buying this portable steamer was one of the best decisions we made this summer. Not only was it affordable (I was skeptical at first!), but it worked incredibly well. I even shared a video showing just how effective it is.

2. Foldable Toiletry Bag

We bought this foldable toiletry bag 2.5 years ago, and it’s become one of those game-changing travel essentials we didn’t realize we needed! Before, we packed my toiletries, my husband’s, and our daughter’s separately, which took up a ton of space in our luggage. But with this bag, everything fits neatly, and it folds into one compact size, saving so much room.

The best part? When you arrive at your hotel, you don’t have to unpack everything. It has a hook at the top, so you can hang it up in the bathroom or anywhere in the room, making it super easy to grab what you need and simplifying packing when it’s time to go home. Plus, it comes in different colors—we went with the blush pink!

Check out the video of how amazing this foldable toiletry bag is!

3. Travel Bottle Set

One mistake I used to make was buying cheap toiletry bottles, which meant having to replace them every time we traveled. Investing in good quality bottles, like these popular ones from Amazon, is a must-have travel essential that will save you money in the long run—especially if you take care of them. They’re easy to clean and can be reused for every trip!

4. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes have become incredibly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Trying to find things at your hotel without fully unpacking can be overwhelming. Packing cubes keep everything organized, with each cube dedicated to different items—one for undergarments, another for dresses, and so on. This not only keeps your luggage neat and mess-free but also makes repacking to head home a breeze!

5. Travel Laundry Bag

Just like packing cubes, a laundry bag is a must-have for your travels. It keeps all your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones, so when you get home, you can simply toss everything into the washing machine. Plus, it won’t take up much space in your suitcase!

Other Travel Posts You May Also Like:

• 20 Best Gift Ideas For Travel Lovers
• How To Stay Healthy While Travelling
• 10+ Must Have Baby Travel Essentials

6. Travel Pillow

A travel pillow is an absolute must for long flights—even for trips as short as 2 or 3 hours! I used to struggle to fall and stay asleep on planes, especially during early morning or long-haul flights when I really needed rest. Since getting a travel pillow, I’ve not only slept better but also avoided neck pain. It’s one of those travel essentials I didn’t realize I needed until I got it—and now I can’t imagine flying without it!

7. Stainless Steel Water Bottle

This isn’t just a travel essential—it’s a must-have in general. I used to hate when the water in my bottle went warm during flights, and I never wanted to spend money on overpriced bottles onboard. Getting a stainless steel water bottle has been a game-changer!

After passing through security, we buy a water bottle, fill it up, and it stays nice and cold. It’s especially refreshing to have cold water during hot vacations over 27°C. The Stanley water bottle has been the best purchase, keeping my water cold for hours!

8. Portable Fan

We’ve had this portable fan for years, and it’s been one of the best purchases we’ve made. It’s perfect for hot holidays and is especially great if you have a baby or toddler—definitely a must-have for keeping them cool! The fan has a stand, so you can set it up by the poolside, or hold it to stay cool while walking in the heat. It’s a game-changer for keeping everyone comfortable!

9. Foldable Toothbrush

If you’re used to packing a regular toothbrush in a case, it’s time to switch things up. Get yourself a foldable toothbrush! Not only does it keep the bristles clean, but its compact design saves space—perfect for smaller toiletry bags where a full-sized toothbrush just won’t fit.

10. Apple Airtag

This is definitely on my wish list—one of those travel essentials I didn’t realize I needed! I always get anxious about losing my luggage or someone accidentally taking it.

A friend once shared on her Instagram story that someone mistakenly took her suitcase, but she was able to track it down thanks to an Apple AirTag. If you’re an Apple user, this is a must-have for peace of mind when traveling!

11. Travel Blanket

How often have you boarded a plane when it’s warm outside, only to freeze once you’re in the air? That’s exactly why you need a travel blanket. Sure, you could bring any blanket, but this one comes with a convenient case, allowing you to fold it neatly and carry it without taking up valuable space in your carry-on.

12. Travel Hangers

These foldable travel hangers are a game-changer! I used to dread arriving at a hotel, only to find just 4 or 5 hangers when I had multiple dresses, shirts, and my family’s clothes that all needed hanging. Bringing your own hangers is a must, and these foldable ones are perfect for saving space in your luggage.

13. Perfume Atomiser

I once went on holiday where my dad’s perfume leaked all over his clothes in his suitcase. After that, he switched to a perfume atomiser—a compact, secure solution where you can transfer your fragrance without worrying about spills.

It’s perfect for short trips, fitting easily in your carry-on, so you can still bring your favourite scents without the hassle of carrying full-sized bottles. Definitely a travel essential for short flights and quick getaways!

14. Universal Travel Adaptor

This universal travel adaptor works in over 150 countries, making it a must-have if you travel to destinations with different plug types. It saves you money in the long run and keeps you from cluttering your home with multiple adaptors. With this one device, you can be confident that no matter where you’re headed, you’ll always have the right adaptor at hand.

15. Kindle

If you love reading on the plane or while on holiday, a Kindle is a must-have. I once ruined a book during a trip, and physical books can take up so much space—especially when your partner also wants to bring their own. With a Kindle, you can carry as many books as you like without the bulk, making it the perfect travel companion for book lovers!

16. Sanitising Wet Wipes

These are something we always have with us, but tend to pack even more of when traveling. Often overlooked, they’re such an essential for the airport, plane, and your holiday.

The first thing we do when boarding the plane is wipe down our seats and trays, and once we arrive at the hotel, we wipe down as much as we can. We also use them to clean our phones after a day out since they pick up so much bacteria. A small but crucial item for staying clean and healthy while traveling!

17. Clear Toiletry Bag

These are ideal for short trips where you need to pack your toiletries and follow the rule of keeping liquids in a clear bag. They’re security-approved, so no need to squeeze everything into a flimsy plastic bag. Plus, they’re reusable, making them a convenient and eco-friendly option for all your future travels!

18. Suitcase Set

What I love about this suitcase set is that it includes every size you might need, whether for different airlines or varying trip lengths. With this set, you won’t have to buy multiple suitcases in different sizes, saving you money in the long run. Plus, it comes in stunning colours like black, beige, and grey!

19. Compression Socks

Compression socks are an absolute must-have for long flights, and honestly, they’re an essential I didn’t realize I needed. If you struggle with leg swelling and discomfort during flights, these socks are designed to help. Even on shorter flights, like just 3 hours, I used to experience swelling in my legs and feet. The discomfort wasn’t worth it, so if you face similar issues, these are definitely a travel essential you shouldn’t overlook.

20. Backpack

My husband has a backpack, but I often struggle with its lack of compartments—finding things can take forever! If you or someone you travel with uses a backpack, this one is the perfect solution. It keeps everything organized, so finding your items is quick and easy. Plus, with better organization, you can carry more, and it fits perfectly under the seat or in the overhead compartment!

This post was all about travel essentials.

If you found this post helpful, make sure to save it on Pinterest!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Any purchases made through Affiliate links are massively appreciated as they help to support the blog and continue its production. Please read the full disclosure here.