You already know you need to pack clothes, socks and underwear. Here are a few essential items you need to pack for any trip.
Every trip you take is individualized and may require a different assortment of gear, but there a few essentials you will need for every trip you take. Suitcase, toiletries and IDs are items you will always need, but the right gear will make your trip safer and more fun. Since you never know what you will encounter when traveling to a new place, you have to be ready for anything and pack the right gear.
It’s hard to pack your bags when going to a new destination because you may not entirely know what you will be doing until you get there. This is why it’s incredibly important that you choose the right traveling gear to ensure you always have what you need. These travel accessories should go with you everywhere you go to not only ensure your safety, but to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.
Backpack
A good backpack for walking should be your first concern. The right backpack can carry and organize everything you need for any destination. Store everything you need for the day such as water, food, extra clothes and a few survival items just in case. Your backpack should be extremely comfortable and have plenty of storage options.
If you carry a laptop, you need to make sure it will fit your backpack. It’s important to spend an adequate amount of time choosing the best backpack for traveling as it will be on your back the majority of the time. Tactical backpacks are made from extremely high-quality material that’s lightwieght and tough as nails and make amazing travel backpacks. You can use them on any type of trip to secure your daily essentials.
Flashlight
While it may seem to be a no-brainer, many people forget to pack a flashlight when traveling. Your backpack will have tons of places to store multiple flashlights, especially if your bag features MOLLE attachments. In fact, I keep flashlights inside my backpack and attach 1-2 for quick access to the outside using attachments.
It’s always a good idea to have a flashlight within reach at all times as you never know when you will get caught in the dark or need to stun an attacker with a bright light. I suggest spending the extra money and purchasing a high-quality light that will last for years. Many EDC flashlights come with Type-C charging capabilities so you won’t have to rely on batteries.
Batteries
Speaking of batteries, it’s always a good idea to keep a few in your bag just in case. While most devices are able to be charged, you may still have a need for a handful of new batteries in your bag. I suggest keeping an assortment of AAA and AA batteries just in case.
Hydration
Not knowing where the next watering hole is could end up being a huge mistake, unless of course, you’re prepared and have your own water. While you can easily stock up on water bottles, the preferred method for hikers or urban explorers is to get a backpack with hydration capabilities. Simply, fill up the water bladder and attach the mouthpiece to your backpack strap to stay hydrated while walking.
This method of staying hydrated is perfect for traveling because it eliminates the need to open your backpack to get water bottles and may lessen the chances of someone grabbing for your bag while you rummage through it.
First-Aid
You never want to find yoruself in an emergency situation without first-aid while traveling. Be the person who’s prepared for anything and build or buy your first-aid kit before you leave. Many first-aid kits are small enough to attach to your MOLLE webbing on your backpack and will save space inside your bag. Most first-aid kits have the essentials, but you will want to research and read reviews to make sure you get the right one.
Dependable Watch
While you don’t have to spend a fortune on a good watch, it’s important that you buy one that’s tough enough for anything you may encounter while traveling. Personally, I prefer Casio G-Shocks because they don’t cost a ton of money and are designed tough. Many of them have a simple design which I like and is safer than wearing a flashy watch that may attract the wrong type of attention. You want to make sure your watch is great at telling time and has a strong battery.
Packing the right gear is essential when traveling to a new destination. It only takes a little preparation to make the right choices and ensure you have a great time and stay safe on your next trip!
