Have you ever got analysis paralysis trying to figure out what to pack when traveling? Do you over pack or underpack and find yourself with too much junk or having to run to the store everywhere you go? Well Pull up a seat and let me tell you what my base items are that I take no matter what – work trip, vacation, flights or road trips. You can build from there but these are the 10 things I take on every trip.
- Cell phone
Its 2025 folks. Smart phones are a fact of life it seems now so I will have my phone. Now I won’t just have my phone but on that phone will be apps that I need for the trip – Airline apps, rental car apps, resort apps, Uber, maps, MPC, Global Entry, AAA, Google Translate, etc.
It also helps to have a talk or data plan that will work in the country or part of the USA you will visit.
2. Chargers
Obviously, if my number 1 is a phone then chargers are gonna be on the list. What do I carry? Some form of portable charger and then a bedside charger. My bedside charger will charge my phone in a way that makes it like an old school alarm clock, charge my ear buds and watch. I didn’t include it in the photos but I also carry charging cords that I can plug into the plane or a wall socket if needed.
3. Headphones/earbuds
I have Ryacon sports earbuds. When on the plane I can listen to music, audiobooks and even connect to some of the in flight entertainment systems. When traveling for work I try to exercise when I can and earbuds are handy for that. Do you prefer over ear or in the ear headphones?
4. Sunglasses/readers
I feel like this one speaks for itself but being over 40 – readers are needed.
5. Gum
Gum is nice to have after a meal or in the middle of the night if we get a flight – no one wants to smell your onion breath or morning breath. Its nice to have on the airplane also to help clear your ears on descent.
6. Laptop
My laptop is my lifeline to the world. Its how I book travel both for work and fun, track expenses, do education, and its also my TV for when I have downtime.
7. Travel toiletry kit.
This one is from Eddie Bauer but you can find other brands like L.L. Bean or generic brands from Amazon. The key is this one fits nicely in my carry on backpack compartment and has a hook. In this I carry all basics – soap, shampoo, toothbrush etc. I also carry Tylenol, Motrin and cold meds – be prepared for unexpected illness.
8. Pen and notebook
I like to have paper and pen handy to jot things down. Maybe I’m old but I like pen and paper rather than notes on the phone. Sometimes you just get an idea like “10 things I take on every trip” and wanna write it down. I also keep a journal for work that I jot things down.
9. Cash
Cash but not just big bills – small ones too. Cash is good for tips – drivers, bag handlers, broken card readers and cash is good if you are in a bind and need help out. Money talks.
10. IDs
So I carry my driver’s license – with real ID, passport and my global entry card. I have them all with me when I travel. Each has their own purpose but having them all will help if I lose one or if there is anything I need 2 forms of ID for.
Bonus 11. Slip on shoes
Slides, Birkenstocks, Crocks…. something you can slip on when wearing socks is best. I use them as house shoes when at work, they work as beach shoes and are nice to have comfort wise after a long day of travel.
So that is what I carry. Did you see something you will add to your travel kit? What is something you never leave home without that I should add?
Seek adventure and get busy living.
-Ben