Every true and tried traveler knows that travel essentials sometimes go beyond the packing list. That's why packing for a trip can be overwhelming. Even with a list ready, you're likely to either forget something or overlook it.
How often has it happened that you didn't think you'd need a specific item, and you needed it badly? To make sure this doesn't happen, and to make your trip as enjoyable as possible, here are some unconventional must-haves.
Reusable ziplock bag
Let's start with something simple - reusable ziplock bags. Not only are these bags eco-friendly, but they can be used for many different purposes. They are lightweight and easy to pack, so you won't have to worry about them taking up too much luggage space.
On top of that, you can store practically anything in them, from snacks to toiletries, or anything you think you may need. They are pretty cheap and they will save you the trouble of buying plastic bags. Plus, as mentioned, they are reusable and eco-friendly, so you won't be polluting the environment.
Bug spray
Mosquitos and other insects can be a real nuisance when traveling. And for whatever reason, finding a bug spray on the go can be pretty difficult. So, to save yourself the trouble, the best solution is packing a bug spray in your suitcase.
Do some research on bug sprays, and find something that will keep the pesky bugs away from you. There are tons of different types of bug repellents, so be picky about what you're getting.
Having this spray in your luggage won't take up much space, and it's pretty lightweight, so even if you don't need it, bringing it won't hurt you.
Quick-dry towel
Yet another very useful travel item that you propbably didn't consider much is a quick-dry towel. This item can be a lifesaver on many occassions. When you need to wipe your hands or face, when you need a pilow, when you've just gotten out of water and are freezing, and so much more.
Most quick-dry towels are made of micro-fiber fabrics and they come in different sizes. The best thing about them is that in addition to drying quickly, you can roll them and pack them essential anywhere, evne your carry-on.
Neck pillow
This item, even though it's a pretty standard travel item is often overlooked. Many people think that neck pillows are either unnceessary or a niusance.
However, this travel accessory can be pretty convinient during travel. Most of the pillows are made of memory foam and can be shaped so that they don't allow your neck to tilt too far to the side. So, basically, their job is to improve and make your naps more comfortable.
While this travel accessory isn't all that unconventional, peopel often overlook it. But taking a neck pillow with you may be the best thing you do for your neck.
Empty water bottle
It's not a secret that when traveling a lot of money is spent on water. We need to stay hydrated, and constantly buying water bottles is the only way to accomplish this. But there's another, less expensive way.
Consider bringing an empty water bottle with you on your trips. This way, you'll have a clean container to fill up with water whenever you need it, so that you don't need to constantly buy plastic water bottles.
Another great idea would be packing personalised stubby holders. These accessories are great for both cans and bottles and their job is to keep your drinks cool and you hands warm, or vice versa. They are also anti-slip, so you don't have to worry about spilling your drinks.
Portable charger and mobile hotspot
Running out of batteries is one of the worst things that can happen to you on your trip. Since we rely so much on technology these days, running out of phone or camera battery while on your trip can be disastrous.
That's why a good way to prevent any potential disasters would be to take a portable charger wiht you. Not only will this gadget prolong your battery life, but it will also save you the trouble of waiting on crowded airport outlets.
Similarly, taking a mobile hotspot with you can be a smart move. Especially if you're traveling somewhere remote and rural. In most cases, these areas don't have a good Wi-Fi connection, so having a mobile hotspot can be a lifesaver.
Handheld steamer
If you're not a great packer, your clothes are likely a wrinkly mess. And finding an iron when traveling is tricky, to say the least. So, how can you deal with wrinkly clothing when traveling?
Easily with the help of small handheld steamer. This small gadget won't take up much space in your luggage but it will come in handy.
No more wasting time looking for an iron, no more wrinkly clothes. All you have to do is pass the steamer over your wrinkled clothing and voila - a wrinkle-free outfit!
Travel hangers
Now, for your steamed clothing to stay wrinkle-free, you'll need to hang them. And not all places you stay at will have clothes hangers. That's where travel hangers can be useful.
Travel hangers usually come in a pack of 12 and are very convininet because they are foldable. They are also lightweight and durable, so you;ll be able to hang everything you need on them.
They will take up minimal space in your bag, so packing them shouldn't be an issue.
Compressed toilet paper tablets
Yes, you've read that right. If you didn't know, there is such thing as compressed toilet paper tablets. Regular toilet paper rolls are too bulky to pack and that's why there aren't practical. Paper tissues, on the other hand, aren't always a good solution. And that's why compressed toilet paper tablets can be a godsent.
As their name suggests, these are toilet paper tissues folded and compressed into tablets. They are super easty to pack and they serve the same purpose as regular toilet paper. Plus, they are flushable!
AirTags
It's not uncommon for luggage to be misplaced or even lost when you're traveling by plane. While not uncommon, it can be a huge inconvinience. If you want to know where your luggage and bags are at all times, you should get AirTags.
AirTags are Apple's invention and their job is to track your items. Place the tags in your bags, link each of these tags with your phone and on it, you can track them and know where your belongings are at all times.
Conclusion
While traveling is fun and exciting, packing can be far from it. But unfortunatly, pakcing is unavoidable part of traveling.
That's where a packing list can come in handy. However, even with a packing list, there are items we completely let slip from our memories. Hopefully, this list of unconvenional travel must-haves helps you remember to pack everyhting, even somehting additional, for your next trip.
