I am a list packer. I like to ensure that I have all the things that I might need, are lying neatly tucked in some part of the luggage that I am carrying. Also, the very first step of making a list itself gives me a happy high – it means the day to travel is just around the corner!
As much as I would like to boast myself off as organised, few things always fall through the crack. No, I am not talking about the passport and wallet, those are like showstoppers. However, during a recent trip I realised the importance of few seemingly humble things that can save time, money (and lot of stress) and improve the overall quality of your trip. So here’s my list of top 10 essentials that should not be given a miss:
Power Bank:
This one easily makes it to the number 1 spot because of obvious reasons. A dead mobile battery and you are nowhere near your accommodation- not a great combination. In our last trip, we had to drive for long hours and realised that 5% charge remaining when you need an hour or two to reach your temporary home, is good enough to give panic attacks. A charged power bank in your day bag can be your best bet.
(Extra) Memory Card
There is no bigger pain than having a camera on your shoulder and the beautiful landscape around you but dud! You left your SD card at home or ran out of it (on a long trip). Figuring out the nearest electronics store, getting what you exactly want (this is not that one time that you will use this, right?) and that too at an exorbitant price can be easily avoided.
Power Adapter
This is for International travels and though this is now easily available in most convenient stores especially in touristy places, you might end up paying an absolute ridiculous amount of money for that one small plastic thing.
Reusable Water Bottle
I was once travelling in Thailand. From Bangkok to Krabi it’s a one and a half hour long flight. The budget airlines would only provide water bottles which you need to buy. That was enough to encourage me to always carry a reusable water bottle. Fill up once the airport security checking is done so that you don’t have to carry the weight around. Also you can use it throughout your trip. These are sturdier than the typical convenience store bought light plastic ones are and obviously as long the refill point provides potable water, these are much more cost effective options. These days you can get bottles in glass, stainless steel, aluminium as well hard plastic. Quirky to classy, they can make quite a statement too!
Laundry Bag / Reusable Shopping Bag
Nothing is more annoying than having soiled, dirty, partially damp clothes spoiling the whole vacation wardrobe in a tightly packed suitcase. A laundry bag comes so handy. Pack the dirty lot in it and once you reach home, they are good to go into the washing machine.
Keep a reusable bag for all those extra stuff that can't go into the check in luggage. Oh did I mention the holiday shopping ?
Safety Pins
Throw in few in your makeup pouch and you are armed against unexpected wardrobe malfunctions!
Insect Repellent
If this sounds over the top to you, think again before you plan to do a bush walk or trek through dense rain forests. Its always a good idea to apply some insect repellent especially during the warmer months when you are in summer clothes and have more exposed body parts.
Lens cleaner wipes
These pre-moistened wipes have the ability to remove dirt, smudges and leaves the glass surface free from scratches . Super light to carry, these are so useful in cleaning not only eyeglasses but also all glass surfaces without scratches like mobile, camera, car mirrors, computer screens, the list is long.
So that's my list of must pack small stuff, is there anything that you think I should add to this list? Let me know in your comments.
Cheers,
Shemanti
Image courtesy: unsplash