The Travel Essentials I Never Leave Home Without (After 12 Years of Travel)

After 12 years of traveling across countries, with kids, solo, and everything in between, I’ve learned one thing the hard way:

What you pack matters.

Not in an “overpack your suitcase” kind of way… but in a choose the right things kind of way.

Because the right travel essentials don’t just make your trip easier, they make it smoother, safer, and honestly, a whole lot more enjoyable.

So whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or planning your dream international trip, these are the items I personally swear by and never leave home without.

It All Starts with the Right Bags

I’ve tested a lot of luggage over the years, and I always come back to a few staples.

A good suitcase is non-negotiable—something durable, easy to roll, and organized inside. I have finally landed on the lightest suitcase with the largest interior space. If you find yourself hoping to cheat that 50Lb bag limit, this is for you. For trips that may include shopping, who are we kidding here, every trip…I throw in my folding duffel bag because it’s flexible and perfect for those “I bought more than I planned” moments.

And for peace of mind?
Suitcase locks and an AirTag are always in my bag.

There’s nothing like being able to check your phone and see exactly where your luggage is. Total game changer.

And here’s a tip learned the hard way — always pack a portable suitcase scale. It takes the guesswork out of packing and helps you avoid those stressful (and expensive) overweight bag surprises at the airport. 

Safety Without Sacrificing Style 

If you’ve ever walked through a crowded market or busy city, you know how important it is to feel secure.

That’s why I always travel with antitheft purses — and I switch them out depending on the day, whose stuff I am bound to carry:

• A sling bagfor hands-free exploring

• A crossbody pouch for minimal days

• A medium crossbody when I need more space (here is another option)

• Even a water bottle bag for long sightseeing days and family excursions

They’re practical, comfortable, and give me one less thing to worry about.

Smart Packing & Organization

If there’s one thing that will instantly upgrade your travel experience, it’s organization.

Light weight packing cubes are a total game changer. They save space, keep everything neat, and make unpacking easy—whether you’re staying in one place or moving around.

I also use cosmetic and toiletry bagsin different sizes to keep liquids, makeup, and essentials organized and easy to find (and to avoid leaks).

A few simple tips:

• Pack toiletries like a carry-on, even if you’re checking a bag

• Keep things minimal — these items can add a lot of weight

• Consider buying basics at a local pharmacy when you arrive. Check out my French Pharmacy list.

• Always carry on your makeup — it’s expensive and harder to replace if your bag is delayed

Simple systems like this make traveling so much easier.

Staying Powered Anywhere in the World

If you travel internationally, you already know — outlets are never the same. Even on airplanes. If you are flying on a foreign carrier you will need your converter to charge you phone inflight.

That’s why I always bring:

• A universal adapterthat works in most countries

• A universal adapter stripfor charging multiple devices

• Smaller region-specific adapters when needed

  • Converter Small Type A- Japan China Mexico Philippines Canada Peru Thailand 

  • Converter Small Type C- Italy Spain France Portugal Iceland Germany, Europe Travel 

  • Small Adapter Type D - Bangladesh, India, Kuwait, Maldives 

  • Small Adapter Type I - Australian China Argentina Fiji Cook Islands AU 

  • Small Adapter Type G - Qatar Ireland Hong Kong England Scotland Kenya Dubai London British 

Be sure you’ll never be stuck with a dead phone in another country if you carry this slimline charger. It sounds like a lot, but once you have your system, it’s effortless.

The One Thing I Always Carry: A Reliable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated while traveling sounds simple — but it’s one of the easiest things to overlook.

I never leave home without a reusable water bottle, and it’s something I use constantly—on flights, during long sightseeing days, and even just walking through airports.  

What’s in my carry-on?

These are the items that don’t take up much space—but make travel so much easier:

• A reliable phone charger(because dead phones = stress) This one is the size of a credit card!

• Change of clothes in the event your bags are delayed.

• Money and document pouches to keep everything secure

• Travel cleaning wipes for planes and hotel rooms

• Hand wipes (I always carry a 20-count pack when the family is in tow)

• Dye-free hand sanitizer for quick cleanups

• An eye mask for better sleep anywhere

• Compression socks for long flights (you’ll feel the difference, trust me)

These are the things that help you feel prepared no matter where you are.

Final Thoughts: Travel Smarter, Not Heavier

After years of travel, I don’t pack more — I pack better.

Every item I bring has a purpose. It’s about making travel smoother, safer, and more enjoyable so I can focus on what actually matters: the experience.

If you’re building your own travel essentials list, start here. These are the items I’ve tested, trusted, and continue to use trip after trip.

And once you travel with the right gear… you’ll never go back.

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