Sometimes packing can be a long exhausting process. You either end up over packing or forget to pack the most important things. So to help you out I decided to put together a list of my top ten travel essentials. Even if you are a regular jet-setter, compare your top ten essentials with mines to see if we are on the same page.

JWV’S 10 MUST HAVE TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Portable charger

A portable charger is just as value-able to me as my passport. I would highly recommend that you invest in a really good one. I know most of us love a bargain. But honestly just spend the extra coins on a charger that is long lasting. Having your phone battery die on you while sightseeing is the absolutely worse. It has happened to me too many times before and it hurts every single time.

JWV Travel tip: To preserve your battery life, close unnecessary apps, reduce your screen brightness and change the battery setting to low battery mode (Apple gang), even when the battery is full. 

Travel adapters

The amount of travel plugs that I have racked up over the years I could sell them in bulk. I used to travel with at least 5 on every trip. But nowadays you can get yourself a multi port travel adapter. Before you set off on any trip do your research on what type of plugs you’ll need. Most hotels have universal plug sockets but sometimes that’s not always the case.

travel essentials

Wet wipes

I always pack wet wipes when I travel for two reasons. Firstly, on the plane your hands will get dirty quite quickly. It’s not always possible to get up to every time to use the toilet. Plus I like to take wet wipes with me because I find that the toilet paper abroad feels quite harsh. So I always take wet wipes for that extra level of comfort. I don’t think I’ve travelled without a pack of wet wipes.

Travel pillow

Unless you are flying first class you’ll need a travel pillow. The longest flight I have ever taken was 11 hours plus to Costa Rica in 2017. If I never had a travel pillow I’m pretty sure my neck would have been a write-off. Pack a travel pillow especially for long-haul flights. Memory foam pillows are like the is the Bentleys of travel pillows. It’s always a good idea to have one of these with you.

travel essentials

Sliders

I’ve never flown with my sliders ever! Honestly they are one of my top travel essentials that I can’t travel without. They’re super comfy for your feet and its always a good idea to travel with a pair. Whether they’re Gucci, Adidas, Nike or from good ole Primarni pack them in your carry on luggage just to be on the safe side.

JWV Travel tip: Try and move around during the flight, to keep the blood circulating in your legs. If you can avoid it do not sit down throughout the whole flight, get up and walk through the aisles.

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Security padlocks 

These babies are a life saver for your travel luggage. There is no hassle with padlock keys or anything like that because all you have to do is come up with a memorable combination. It’s best to lock your valuables away whenever you’re not in sight.

Most hotels have safety box facilities in their rooms. I made the most of this in Dubai but still made sure I had my own padlock with me. If you are not staying in a hotel on your next trip get yourself a few padlocks combos. I’m not saying that you will get robbed but who wants people having unauthorized access to their belongings? ?

Travel bottles

I used to be one of those people who would overload my luggage with life-size toiletries. This was until customs stung me with fees in the Dominican Republic back in 2012 and ever since then I’ve taken the necessary precautions. Travel bottles help to keep your liquids organized and you will find that you have lots more space to play around with. These babies are a key item of my travel essentials.

Waterproof phone case

This item is only essential depending on what countries you are going to visit and what you plan to do whilst you’re out there. Most of these new phones are waterproof but I still wont risk it. As you know it’s better to be safe than sorry.My waterproof phone case was a life saver in Costa Rica. I took my phone Snorkelling and it came back in one piece.

travel essentials

iPad, Tablet or Laptop

My iPad and my Macbook pro come everywhere with me. I love taking my iPad with me because it allows me to do lots of additional things like watch listen to music, watch Netflix or catch up with some JWV admin. In plane entertainment can be quite dusty so its always good to bring a gadget with you. On your next trip download some of your favourite tv shows or films and binge-watch it on the flight.

Travel Insurance

Most people think Travel insurance is a waste of money but it really isn’t. Even if you are taking a day trip to Paris you must ensure that you’re insured. It is one of the cheapest things to purchase when travelling but sadly it is always overlooked. Did you know that you can buy travel insurance in under 10mins online. It’s a very simple process that takes no real time off your hands.

Travel insurance covers a wide range of things from medical bills to delayed flights. So always make sure that you review what a policy has to offer properly before buying one. It’s best to travel smart as you never know what can happen. In life always stay ready because the unexpected can occur. You can get all year cover through your bank or Compare the market.

JWV Travel tip: set a reminder on your phone 5 days before your trip to book your travel insurance. 

Compare your top travel essentials with my list to see if we’re on the same page. You might need to reshuffle yours or I might need to take some tips from you. Did I leave anything out? let me know in the comments below.


Stay Blessed

Lots of love

JWV

xoxo

Have you booked any 2020 flights yet? Check out my 2019 travel highlights

travel essentials

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