If you’re getting ready for that big getaway—heading abroad for leisure travel or to study—you need a set of compact and versatile items that’ll make life easier for you once you arrive.
On your travels, you’ll be dealing with plenty of tight spaces, so maximizing every last square centimetre of your backpack or suitcase becomes essential.
Below are ten essentials to include in your baggage.
1) A travel blanket
A blanket that will keep you warm while on the go, but also at the hotel, hostel or student dorm, is a must. Choose one that dries quickly and doesn’t take up space. Many can be stored in a compact case.
2) Compression packing bags
Working with minimal space, but still want to bring along plenty of clothes? Compression bags are very user-friendly. They will allow you to increase your space tenfold in the blink of an eye thanks to the magic of vacuum storage.
3) The perfect backpack
Look for a backpack that is both light and comfortable, with a large storage capacity (such as 40 litres). Make sure it has anti-theft features to thwart pickpockets. You can store your passport, money and valuables in a lockable pocket.
4) A toiletry bag
Essential toiletries for your trip, such as sunscreen, insect repellent and beauty products, will easily fit into a kit designed with many pockets.
5) Folding hangers
Not looking forward to wearing wrinkled clothes? If you expect you’ll need to slip on something more stylish during your sojourn, consider folding hangers that will allow you to hang dresses, blouses and other garments that are likely to wrinkle.
6) A clothesline
If your trip is going to span several weeks, you may need to do a bit of laundry along the way. Get a clothesline that doesn’t require clips. You’ll be able to dry your clothes easily, wherever you are.
7) A waist stash
Your adventure in a faraway land could turn into a nightmare if some ill-intentioned person manages to steal your ID and other valuable documents. To protect your cards, passport and cash, there’s nothing like an RFID-blocking waist stash that can be worn under clothing.
8) A poncho
Nobody likes getting caught in a sudden downpour, whether at home or abroad. To ward off the elements, bring along a waterproof poncho, specially designed for travel. It can be stored in a compact case which you can keep with you at all times.
9) A flat iron
If you plan to wage unrelenting war on frizz during your time abroad, you’d best have a compact flat iron at the ready. The best is a dual-voltage model only requiring an adapter designed for the country you will be visiting.
10) A dual-voltage converter kit
Wall outlet configurations differ around the world, so a voltage converter and plug adapters are a must for charging all your electronics.
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