Discover 17 essentials for international travel that will keep you healthy, organized, and comfortable for your trip abroad! From probiotics and green powders to blackout eye masks, laundry detergent sheets, and portable charges...these items have been my travel must-haves for over a decade. I don't leave home without them.
Traveling abroad means you have more things to consider when packing. Itineraries are typically full, meaning you'll be out and about all day, flights are longer (hello germs and potential for getting sick), and you're in a foreign country with varying electric plugs and food you're not used to.
I don't bother with many of the items on this list for quick trips closer to home, but trips abroad are a different matter.
These 17 international travel essentials distinguish novice travelers from frequent travelers. I pack these items on every international trip.
Some items may be obvious while others might be things you never considered.
You'll soon find that some of these products make a big difference in your comfort, health, or sanity.
15 essentials for international travel
1. Backpack - lightweight and packable
Who else is thrilled that backpacks made a comeback? They're now standard accessories in the business and travel world.
A good backpack is essential for international travel since it's common to be away from your hotel the entire day. Having a full itinerary also means you're having to pack more things (camera, water bottle, jacket, guide book, etc.).
Handbags, totes, and belt bags aren't going to cut it.
I appreciate that brands like Tumi are making backpacks for women that are extremely functional, fashionable, and light weight.
My main travel backpack is the Tumi Halsey. This fits everything I need for the day including my laptop.
The Tumi Voyager (now Celina) is my backpack of choice for winter travel. It's a tad bigger than the Halsey, meaning I can fit scarves, gloves, and other bulky items I don't need in warmer seasons.
While Tumi may be expensive, I can't rave enough about this brand. I've had the Celina for about 8 years. It's gone through the ringer, and yet, has held up well and barely looks used.
The materials are far higher quality than other copycat versions. If you want to invest in quality and know it will be years and years and years before your backpack needs to be replaced, Tumi is great.
I always buy directly from Tumi. The customer service and 5-year warranty are fantastic.
I also have a Lululemon backpack that fits all my travel essentials and recently bought this Tory Burch backpack that's smaller than my Tumi and for days when I don't need my laptop.
Opt for backpacks made with parachute/nylon material to keep them lightweight and durable. This also helps save space when packing your backpack.
Since I don't use this backpack as my carry-on, I lie it flat in my suitcase or my larger DB carry-on backpack.
AWA Tip: I always pack a Longchamp shoulder bag to use as a "handbag" when I don't want to wear my backpack (i.e. for dinner). The medium size (make sure to get the one with the large handles) is perfect for traveling. It folds up into a little square and fits all the essentials (my camera, a water bottle, small wallet, etc.).
Similar to Tumi, it's not cheap. Priced at $140. But it's worth it. I've had my Longchamp for 11 years and it still looks new even though I've taken it on every single international trip.
2. Water bottle - option that purifies water
Skip constantly buying bottled water. Save money, save the planet, and avoid ingesting plastic particles by bringing your own water bottle.
Some cities (most in Europe) have extremely clean drinking water. I'll fill up my bottle from fountains, sinks, coffee shops, restaurants, etc.
For places that don't have safe drinking water, I'll fill up at the hotel and anywhere else that has filtered water.
I like the S'well water bottles since they keep my drink hot (when I make tea) or cold for a full 24 hours. Another perk is that these bottles don't sweat, and therefore, your bag and everything in your bag stays dry.
The 17 oz. size is big enough to get you between refills but small enough to fit in your backpack or shoulder bag. I also like that the screw cap covers where you put your mouth. Skip the water bottles that leave the part you sip on exposed.
I also really like the Owala FreeSip bottles.
Check out the Brita water bottle if you'd like a little extra security with a carbon filter in the straw. This is more for taste and particle removal than actual filtration (i.e., don't rely on this when the drinking water is unsafe).
For actual water purification, you'll want something like the LARQ Bottle PureVis. This uses a combination of UV-C light inside the bottle and an advanced filter straw.
This is a really interesting concept and from the data on the website, they say the PureVis bottle paired with the advanced filter straw allows you to safely drink water in places like Mexico.
The GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle is a popular option for hikers and campers since you can purify pretty much any type of water.
SEE ALSO:
PACKING LIGHT | CARRY ON FOR A 2 WEEK TRIP
BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE USA – TOP 10
TRAVELING LIGHT – HOW TO SIZE DOWN YOUR BEAUTY BAG
TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS – WHAT TO DO BEFORE DEPARTURE
AFFORDABLE TRAVEL – 10 BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS
3. AirTags
Airtags are one of my newest additions to the list of international travel essentials. Since many people check bags when traveling abroad, throwing these in your suitcase can be a lifesaver if the airline looses your luggage. At least you know where your bags are and can assist the airline in getting them back to you as quickly as possible.
I will also put this in my carry-on. I've heard recent stories of carry-on bags being stolen from the overhead bins. If this happens you can immediately follow where your bag is and WHO has it.
Once I'm at my destination I'll throw an Airtag in my wallet or the pouch I put my credit cards/money/keys in.
On one of my recent trips, my travel pouch fell out of my bag and I was able to track (to the exact spot) where it was. The chirping sound you can activate from your phone is also a lifesaver.
Airtags are one more way to have peace of mind when traveling alone. Jake can see where I am via my phone, but if my phone were to stop working or become stolen, the Airtags become a backup location device.
4. Kindle + free Kindle library books
My Kindle has paid for itself 20 times over with all the use (and free library Kindle books) I've gotten out of it. This is a no-brainer travel essential for my fellow solo travelers. Dinners alone aren't so bad when paired with a good book.
While I love hard copies, Kindles are a lifesaver for long trips where it's likely you'll read more than one book.
A Kindle is also a lot easier to read when eating since you can prop it up on something (like a water pitcher). Even better, order one of the Kindle covers that includes a kickstand.
5. Noise cancelling headphones or earplugs
Crying baby behind you on the 10-hour plane ride? Thin hotel walls that fail to buffer noise from your neighbors? Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs are an essential travel must-have.
The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are your highest-quality option. I prefer these to the Bose because they aren't as bulky. The comfort is a big perk. After hours of use, those earbuds can start to hurt.
The new Apple AirPods Pro is a great option for something more compact and does a surprisingly good job at canceling outside noise.
If you're looking for essential travel items to give as a gift, these are a sure winner.
Earplugs are an ultra-cheap alternative if noise-canceling headphones aren’t in your budget.
6. Blackout eyemask
Between glow-in-the-dark exit instructions (I kid you not), temperature control screens with undimmable brightness, drapes that don't cover the window, light escaping under the door to the hall...the list goes on and on of things that have kept my room far from the ideal darkness.
I've used many eye masks and one stands above the rest by a long shot in comfort and ability to completely black out your surroundings.
Drowsy is a step above the rest because it's made with the highest quality silk and has a superior design. The thick straps are great for muffling noise since they cover your ears and wrinkle prevention (for side sleepers).
Unlike most sleeping masks, Drowsy does not use a stretch band (which kinks your hair) and instead uses velcro so it will fit virtually every head size.
While these sleep masks are expensive at $79, I'm willing to pay up for quality materials (not just the outside silk, but the silk padding on the inside). I buy the 2-packs ($109) since Jake wears these masks too.
7. Detox tea
That clean diet you eat at home probably goes out the window during vacation. Pack some detox tea to help your body deal with the added toxins from your travel diet.
I really like the Yogi Peach Detox and the Traditional Medicinals Lemon Detox.
8. Probiotics
Sticking to the idea of combating your travel diet, probiotics are a health and digestive travel essential. This will help with stomach and digestive issues and help keep you regular while on the road.
Be sure to get one that does not require refrigeration. Garden of Life Primal Defense works best for me.
9. Green powder
If you read my post on how to stay healthy while traveling, you'll be familiar with green powder and already know it's one of my go-to travel must-haves.
I always pack powdered greens so I can replace a few afternoon meals with a green juice and give my body a break from digesting heavy meals. Or I'll have them for breakfast.
Choosing a juice over a meal is not only healthier and will leave you feeling lighter but can also be enjoyed on the run while you're walking to the next destination.
My green powders of choice:
- AG1 - many consider this the gold standard of powdered greens. Travel packets are available.
- Amazing Grass Detox and Digest - a cost-effective option with a slight berry flavor.
- Garden of LIfe Superfood Powder (travel packets of the protein plus greens version)
10. Portable charger
If you're taking videos and photos all day, your phone is likely to die before the day comes to an end. Bring a portable charger so you don’t miss any photo opps.
I have the Anker PowerCore 10000 and have been really happy with its charge power and compact size.
11. Converter/travel adapter
Pretty sure no explanation is needed for this one when traveling to another country. I recently upgraded to a converter that has several USB slots and it's a game changer! No more fighting over who gets to charge their phone first.
12. Eye drops/lip balm/hand cream
I don’t know about you, but I get super dehydrated on the plane and when traveling in general. I always pack plenty of eye drops, lip balm, and hand cream to help with the dryness.
If you're using eyedrops multiple times a day be sure to buy the preservative-free eye drops. The regular eye drops can be irritating if used frequently.
These are some of my favorite products:
- Laneige lip mask - I use this during the day and at night and love that it's thick without being gloopy. While the original version that comes in a tub is great, I prefer the new version that comes in a tube. It's more hygienic and better for travel.
- Hyaluronic Omega Moisture Lip Mask - light and super hydrating.
- NUXE Rêve de Miel Ultra Lip Balm - this is very thick and perfect for bedtime/overnight flights.
- CAUDALÍE Hand & Nail Cream - I'm a big fan of all Caudalie products.
13. Camera
If I'm packing light I'll rely on my iPhone. I’ll bring my Sony Alpha 6000 or Sony Alpha a7iii mirrorless when I know I’m going to have some incredible photo opps and need a higher quality lens.
14. Laundry detergent sheets
Laundry detergent sheets are essential for international travel and long trips... especially if you're a rockstar at packing light and re-wearing your outfits.
Don’t put yourself in a situation where all of a sudden you have no clean socks or underwear. I used to pack a travel bottle of laundry detergent so I could wash items as needed in my hotel sink.
Then I discovered laundry detergent sheets! Genius product.
I pack just 2 Laundry Detergent Sheets. You only need 1/4 of a sheet to do a sink full, so 2 sheets will be plenty. Be sure to put them in a plastic baggy because they need to stay completely dry.
There are also travel packets of laundry detergent. I prefer the sheets since it's not a liquid.
This is also great if you plan to visit a laundry mat since most places either don't provide detergent or it's heavily scented.
15. Compression socks
Compression socks are a new must-have travel item for me. I started researching them not for myself, but for Jake. His feet would get so swollen after long plane rides and walking around all day.
After researching the benefits of compression socks, I knew this needed to be added to the list. While I only use them for the long plane journey, Jake will probably wear them more often outside of plane travel.
Compression socks help with circulation, reduce soreness and inflammation, decrease lactic acid build up, and more. I really like the Comrad knee-high medium compression socks.
16. Compression Packing Cubes
Compression packing cubes are a game changer in not only packing light, but keep everything organized and make moving between hotels a breeze.
I actually keep my clothes in my packing cubes the entire trip and just transfer the entire cube into drawers and closets. My packing cubes are organized by category.
All my workout clothes go in a small cube, pants and shirts go in a medium/large cube, dresses, bulkier clothing, and other miscellaneous clothes go in another medium/large cube, and all my underwear, socks, bras, and accessories like hair scarves, jewelry, etc., go in a small cube.
The packing cubes pictured above are by far my favorite. I've had them for 5+ years. They've held up well, are extremely lightweight, and offer the perfect amount of compression without overdoing it.
Other options I like are:
AWA Tip: be careful not to buy packing cubes that compress too much. I have these cubes, and while they are great for my smaller items, I really can't fit much in them because they are so slim when zipped/compressed.
For winter trips, these compression sacks are a travel must-have. Once filled with clothes, you roll/fold/press the bags to get all the extra air out. Perfect for bulky sweaters, down jackets, etc.
Colmar, Frace
17. Umbrella
Don’t be one of those travelers who doesn’t pack an umbrella unless there's rain in the forecast. 90% of the time it rains at some point during my trip and I’m glad I brought my travel umbrella.
I recommend a windproof umbrella with Teflon coating. This Repel umbrella has both qualities and is super compact and lightweight.
In summary
I hope you found some new international travel essentials after reading this post. These items help me to stay healthy while abroad, pack light, and travel comfortably. I haven't left home without these 17 items in my 20+ years of jetting across the globe!
Hi
I carry eco stripes detergent when I travel. They are leaves with concentrate eco soap for clothes. They take minimum space and not risk of leaking. I travel once a month minimum.
Agree! Awesome invention.