12 Travel Essentials I Don’t Leave Home Without (And Use Almost Every Day)
After traveling to over 30 countries (and mostly regularly the Mediterranean), my suitcase has changed a lot over the years. But through trial, error, and plenty of unexpected moments (like trying to pack a bulging suitcase at 2 a.m. or realizing my charger only fits one outlet), I’ve found a handful of items I now pack every time.
These are the small, everyday travel essentials that I actually use—almost daily. Whether I’m working remotely, catching a ferry, or just trying to keep my body feeling good on the go, these items make the difference between just surviving and thriving while traveling.
1. Multiport Adapter
One adapter. Seven inputs. Enough said. If you travel with a laptop, this little gadget is a must. It plugs into my USB-C port and gives me access to everything—USB drives, SD cards, HDMI, the works.
Whether I’m uploading content, charging my phone, or connecting to a TV, this adapter handles it all. I use it regularly.
2. Power Bank with Built-In Cords
I’ve learned the hard way that having a dead phone while navigating a foreign city = not fun.
This charger has built-in cords for multiple devices (no tangled mess!), and it fits in my bag easily for long days out. A fully charged power bank will charge my phone 2-3 times.
3. Febreze with Gain
This is my ride or die for staying fresh while rewearing outfits, living out of a carry-on, or surviving laundry day delays. It’s also a great hack for musty hotel rooms or freshening up your suitcase contents.
4. Tiger Balm
A miracle in a jar. I use this for bug bites, sore muscles, tension headaches, and long travel days. The scent is strangely comforting after a long flight or hike.
5. Eye Mask
My ultimate sleep protector because on the go, not every room has blackout curtains, and sometimes you just need a nap in broad daylight. This small item = better sleep anywhere.
6. Atomizer (For Perfume Spray)
No need to bring your whole perfume bottle, just fill a travel atomizer with your favorite scent. It takes up zero space and makes me feel put together even when I’m living out of a backpack.
7. Pill Organizer
This has become a non-negotiable, especially when hopping countries or juggling time zones. Whether it’s vitamins, allergy meds, or daily supplements, it keeps everything accessible and not floating at the bottom of my bag.
8. Weight Scale Mirror Duo (for Longer Trips)
This isn’t about obsessing over numbers, it’s a tool that helps me stay grounded on longer trips. It’s a gentle check-in that helps me stay mindful of my health without guilt. It also comes in very handy when it’s time to repack—especially if I’ve picked up souvenirs or packed a little aggressively. Knowing your luggage weight before you hit the airport saves money and stress.
Bonus use: The smooth glass surface doubles as a large mirror for makeup, skincare, or those moments when your lighting is... less than ideal. It’s surprisingly multifunctional.
9. Travel French Press
Coffee lovers, you get it. This compact French press keeps me caffeinated and able to start my day even if I’m in a remote village or a rental with no real coffee maker. It can also double as a thermos or light-weight water bottle. I love finding a local roaster wherever I’m traveling, buying high quality beans, and asking them to grind it for french press.
10. Hydrating Electrolyte Powder
Between flights, sun exposure, and wine nights with new friends, hydration matters. I add this to my water almost daily to feel refreshed and energized, especially during hot Mediterranean summers.
11. nighttime Tea
Sleep doesn’t always come easy when you’re in a new place every few nights. I always bring a few calming herbal sleepy teas to wind down, especially helpful after travel days, late coffee shop visits, or when I need a grounding routine.
12. Debloat pre/Probiotic Supplement (I use Promix)
I bring these everywhere to help my body stay regular, my gut healthy, and reduce discomfort when I’m off my usual eating schedule.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a suitcase full of “just in case” items. With time, you’ll learn your own “must haves” but in case you’re not quite there yet, I’m sharing mine. These are my top 12 favorite items that are are compact, practical, and most importantly, I used almost daily on the road.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fiftieth, I hope this list helps you pack lighter, smarter, and more intentionally. Need help with a packing list? You can also snag my packing system here.
Let me know—which one of these do you travel with too?