12 Essential Travel Must-Haves to Make Your Life Easier

Almost every week, without fail, a friend or a client runs into a problem on their travels that could easily have been resolved with one of these essential travel must-haves. Here’s my personalised list of travel essentials I never leave home without!

Number 1: A Luggage Scale

This genius tool is something my dad swears by, and now so do I! Thanks to this little device, I’ve never been caught out with excess baggage fees at the airport. And trust me, so many of my friends have told me horror stories of unexpected charges that could’ve been avoided.

We all get swept up in the excitement of packing for a holiday—who wouldn’t? It’s easy to think, “There’s no way I’ve gone over the weight limit!” But believe me, those kilograms add up fast. For us “just-in-case” packers (hi, that’s me 🙋🏻‍♀️), a luggage scale is a lifesaver.

Pro Tip: Don’t just weigh your bags before leaving home—pack that scale in your suitcase too! On your way back, it’s even more essential to weigh your luggage after all the souvenir shopping you’ve done.

I recommend the FREETOO Portable Luggage Scale, which is accurate, durable, and easy to use. Mine’s been with me for over three years and never let me down.

Number 2: A Universal Travel Adapter

We live in a wonderfully tech-savvy era where many hotels and cruise ships now provide USB charging ports next to your bed. However, if you’re like me and travel with a laptop, personal hairdryer, or straighteners, you’ll need a standard plug point too.

While several popular destinations share the UK’s Type G plug (three rectangular pins), many don’t. A universal adapter ensures you’re never caught off guard and can always charge or use your electronics, no matter where you are.

I personally travel with two adapters—though one is usually plenty. My go-to is the AUNNO Universal Travel Adapter, which comes with 1 USB-C and 2 USB-A ports. It works in over 150 countries, saving you the hassle and expense of purchasing multiple adapters. A true lifesaver for hassle-free travel!

Number 3: A Waterproof Phone Case

When I’m on holiday, I usually prefer to leave my phone in my bag and fully immerse myself in the moment. But during a trip to Jamaica last year, I learned the value of having a waterproof phone pouch on hand. A fellow Travel Agent introduced me to the brilliance of them by snapping some amazing in-water selfies of us. It was a game-changer!

Since then, I never travel without one. They’re perfect for capturing unforgettable water moments without worrying about damaging your phone. I love this affordable duo pack by UNBREAKcable and often gift it to my honeymoon clients, knowing they’ll make the most of it during their aquatic adventures. It’s a small item that makes a big impact!

Number 4: An Underseat Holdall Cabin Travel Bag

Gone are the days when you could freely stash a decent-sized cabin bag weighing up to 10kg in the overhead compartments. Now, many airlines charge around £60 for that privilege. For a short 1-4 night getaway, I’d rather spend that money exploring a new city! That’s why learning to travel light and choosing the right bag is a game-changer.

After a disappointing experience with a cheaper bag (hello, broken zipper on the second use!), I switched to the Narwey bag, and I haven’t looked back. It’s slightly pricier but worth every penny. I love that it comes in different colours (I went for light purple!) and fits way more than you’d expect. Plus, it’s passed the ultimate test: fitting perfectly on both easyJet and Ryanair. Compact, durable, and airline-approved—what’s not to love?

Number 5: A Portable Fan

Many of us dream of warm destinations when we plan our holidays. But let’s be honest—places like Thailand or the Caribbean, with their high humidity, can sometimes feel a bit too warm. Not that I’m complaining! But spending my holiday constantly sweating and overheating isn’t exactly my idea of relaxation.

That’s why, when I’m not cooling off in the pool or the sea, I always have my trusty compact portable fan at the ready. My go-to is the JISULIFE Handheld Fan—the most compact and convenient one I’ve owned so far. Despite its size, it packs a serious cooling punch and has been my saviour on trips for the past two years (not to mention during those rare scorching British summer days).

Bonus? It even comes with a flashlight, which has surprisingly come in handy more times than I’d expected. AND it can serve as a power bank in an emergency. It’s a small but mighty travel companion I won’t leave home without!

Number 6: A Luggage Lock

A luggage lock might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of those travel essentials you’ll be glad to have. Whether you’re stashing your bag in a hotel room, loading it into the overhead compartment, or checking it in at the airport, a lock adds an extra layer of security to protect your belongings.

It’s not just about keeping valuables safe from prying hands—luggage locks can also prevent someone mistakenly opening your bag if it looks similar to theirs. If you’re heading to destinations where bag tampering is a concern, a sturdy lock can give you much-needed peace of mind. And with many TSA-approved locks available, you can still comply with security regulations while keeping your luggage secure.

Pro Tip: Use a sticker, or nail varnish on your locks to create a unique design that makes your bags easily identifiable on the luggage conveyor belt. It will also deter others who may have similar locks from taking your bags as they'll spot your unique touch and realise it is not theirs.

It’s a small investment that helps ensure your travels stay stress-free. After all, who wants to worry about their bag when there’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored? My personal choice and recommendation is the ZHEGE TSA Approved Luggage Lock.

Number 7: A Portable First Aid Kit

A portable first aid kit might just be your best travel companion. Whether it's a minor scrape from exploring a rugged trail, a headache from a long-haul flight, or an upset stomach after trying adventurous street food, having basic medical supplies on hand can save the day. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about being prepared when pharmacies or assistance may not be easily accessible.

Packing essentials like plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and even rehydration salts ensures you’re ready for unexpected situations. Plus, having your kit tailored to your needs (like specific medications or motion sickness remedies) makes it even more valuable. It's one of those small things you’ll be so grateful for when the need arises. Don’t leave home without one!

I personally use the Lewis-Plast Premium First Aid Kit because it packs a lot, but is still very compact. I insert my own choice of pain relievers and other essential medication, and then it has everything I need! 

Number 8: A Toothbrush Head Cover

A toothbrush head cover may not seem like a big deal, but it can make a world of difference, especially when traveling. Think about it—your toothbrush spends a good part of its time tucked away in your bag, potentially brushing up against other items like toiletries or snacks. A cover acts as a hygienic barrier, protecting the bristles from dirt, dust, and bacteria, ensuring it stays clean and ready to use.

It’s also perfect for maintaining the integrity of your toothbrush head. No one wants to brush their teeth with bent or damaged bristles! Plus, if you're someone who likes to keep your toothbrush handy in your carry-on for long-haul flights, a cover keeps it discreet and tidy. Small, lightweight, and affordable, it’s a no-brainer addition to your travel kit!

I personally love and use these Mspan Toothbrush Head Covers because they're cute and very versatile, fitting a range of toothbrush types and sizes.

Number 9: A Waterproof Toiletry Bag

Traveling can be a thrilling adventure, but let’s be honest—packing can sometimes be a bit of a chore. One essential item that often gets overlooked is the trusty toiletry bag. Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or embarking on a month-long journey, having a reliable toiletry bag can make all the difference. 

Imagine this: you’re in a hotel room after a long day of traveling, and you just want to freshen up. You open your suitcase, and there’s your shampoo leaking over your clothes, your toothbrush buried somewhere beneath a pile of shirts, and your razor…who knows where that went. Frustrating, right? This is where a travel toiletry bag becomes a game-changer.

A good travel toiletry bag keeps all your personal care items neatly organised in one place. No more rummaging through your suitcase or dealing with messy spills. With designated compartments and pockets, you can easily access your essentials without turning your luggage upside down. It saves time and reduces stress, making your travel experience much more enjoyable.

I personally use this gender neutral Seemroad toiletry bag because I like the various compartments and it's big enough for my Shampoo and Conditioner, which are big bottles.

Number 10: Travel Wash

When you’re traveling, packing light and being prepared for unexpected situations go hand in hand, which is why a travel wash is such a game-changer. Whether you’re trekking through remote villages, staying in a resort, or simply trying to keep your luggage compact, travel wash allows you to freshen up clothes on the go. It’s perfect for those moments when a favorite shirt gets stained, or you’ve run out of socks midway through your trip.

Having a small bottle of concentrated travel wash means you can rinse items in a hotel sink or bucket, saving you the hassle of over-packing or finding a laundromat. Plus, many travel washes, like Dr. Beckmann's, are gentle on fabrics, biodegradable, and TSA-compliant, making them an eco-friendly and practical solution. It’s a little lifesaver that ensures you’re always prepared without weighing you down!

Number 11: Weekly Travel Tablet Organiser

Regardless of your age, chances are you have a daily tablet or supplement you take—even if it’s just a multivitamin. But tossing bulky pill bottles into your luggage can waste valuable packing space and create unnecessary clutter. Streamline things with a compact pill organiser. It keeps everything neat, accessible, and easy to manage.

I use the Betife Daily Pill Organiser because it's compact, durable and comes in some great colours.

Pro Tip: Traveling for longer than a week? No problem—simply double (or triple) up by bringing more organisers. That way, you’ll have all the convenience and none of the hassle!

Number 12: Refillable Water Bottle

A refillable bottle ensures you always have water on hand without having to buy overpriced single-use bottles at airports or tourist spots. Buying water in small, single-use bottles can add up quickly. With a refillable bottle, you can take advantage of free water stations at airports, hotels, and public spaces.

Staying hydrated is also good for both your mind and body, so always having water on hand is my staple travel hack. Recently I got myself the NAVTUE Collapsible Water Bottle because I am doing my best to try travel lighter, but there are a endless options out there for a bottle that best suits you.

This concludes my ultimate top 12, but if you ever have any questions about other hacks or would simply like some impartial advice, feel free to reach out to me any time.