Travel Essentials Beyond Clothing

Besides clothing, your backpack also needs to fit a whole range of other items. From absolute essentials you definitely shouldn’t forget, to things that are just super practical to have with you.

Keep in mind that around a quarter of your backpack will likely be taken up by this kind of gear when you're packing for your trip.

Below you'll find all the items with explanations on why I bring them. Prefer a simple overview without the details? Download the complete checklist as a PDF

Documents & Identification

• Passport
  Always the most essential item—never leave without it.

• Travel pouch
  I always carry a small travel pouch containing emergency documents, some cash, passport photos, and other important papers, along with a pen. A pen is very useful when crossing borders, especially for filling out immigration forms.

• Emergency information (3x printed)
  My emergency document includes embassy contacts, copies of important cards, and emergency phone numbers. I print three copies and distribute them across different bags.

• Extra passport photos
  Some land border crossings require physical passport photos for visa-on-arrival procedures. It’s smart to bring several with you.

• International driving permit
  If you plan to rent a scooter or vehicle abroad, many countries require an international driving permit. Get it before your trip—it’s valid for several years. Without it, you risk fines if stopped by local police.

• Printed & digital bookings
  I usually print important bookings or save them on my laptop for quick access when offline.

• Credit cards (at least 2)
  Always bring at least two. If one gets blocked, swallowed, or stolen, you won’t be stuck without access to your money.
  
  

Money & Valuables

• Wallet + money clip
  Choose a wallet that fits lots of cash. In many countries, card payments aren’t common, so having enough space for bills is handy.

• Cash (Euros/USD)
  Always carry Euros or US Dollars as a backup. These currencies are widely accepted or can be exchanged, especially in emergencies or when local currency is unavailable.
  
  

Security & Organization

• Metal padlocks (x2)
  For securing lockers in hostels or your main backpack.

• Flexible wire locks (x2)
  These can be used to secure zippers on your backpack while in transit or in public places.

• Large bike lock
  Handy if you need to leave your backpack somewhere unattended for a few days, e.g. in a luggage storage area.

• Flight bag + name tag
  A must when flying with a backpack. It prevents others from tampering with or inserting items into your pack. It also prevents straps from getting caught during handling. Mine is the Lowland Outdoor Flightbag – 75L, which folds up compactly.

• Packing cubes (compression style)
  A lifesaver for organizing clothes. I use two large compression cubes for everything except one pair of pants and one sweater (which I wear on travel days). Mine were cheap but durable—no need for expensive ones.

• Carabiners (x2)
  Useful for hanging items like a hat, jacket, or shoes on the outside of your backpack. Lightweight ones from Shein or Temu work fine.
  
  

Health & First Aid

• Medication kit
  Sickness happens more often while traveling due to food, climate, and bacteria. I bring:

• Paracetamol

• Wapiti (natural remedy for digestion and constipation)

• Vitamin C (for low-energy days)

• Nasal spray (I’m prone to colds)

• Okugest (natural anti-diarrhea/food poisoning aid)

• ORS (rehydration salts for extreme fluid loss)

• First aid kit
  Includes plasters, gauze, thermometer, and a small pair of scissors.

• Mini sewing kit
  A friend once told me to pack this, and I’ve been grateful ever since. Super tiny and lightweight. I’ve used it more than I expected!

• Rope
  My dad added a strong, compact rope to my kit. I’ve never needed it yet... but I still don’t take it out.

• Mini travel scissors
  I swear by this. You won’t need it every day, but when you do, it’s a game-changer.

• LifeStraw water bottle
  Filters water directly in the bottle. In South America, this was especially useful—you don’t need to buy bottled water all the time. Saves money and avoids hassle.
  

Personal Care & Accessories

• Glasses & contact lenses (extras too)
  If you have poor eyesight, bring enough lenses and distribute them across different bags. Getting replacements abroad can be tricky.

• Jewelry pouch
  A small foldable jewelry case. While many avoid bringing jewelry, I always wear a few personal items or things I pick up along the way.

• Alcohol wipes / refreshing wipes
  Perfect for cleaning your hands, freshening up after long travel days, or wiping down dirty surfaces.

• Tampons
  In many parts of the world—especially in Asia—tampons can be hard to find or much more expensive than at home. Bring a personal stock if you prefer them over other menstrual products.
  
  

Comfort Items

• Inflatable neck pillow
  Regular ones are too bulky. This inflatable version is perfect for long bus rides or airport layovers.

• Sleep mask
  A must for bright hostel rooms or travel days.

• Headlamp
  I rarely use it, but it’s useful in remote areas like jungles or for early-morning packing in dorms.

• Retractable badge holder (security cord)
  I sewed one inside my crossbody bag and attach it to my phone case. Super useful in crowded areas—prevents pickpocketing or snatching.

• Lucky charm (blue eye bead)
  I always carry something that brings me luck. Could be a keychain or stone—whatever feels right.

• Deck of cards
  My go-to game. Whether it’s a drinking game or just bonding with fellow travelers, it’s always useful to have.

Bags (besides camera bags)

• Uniqlo crossbody bag
  My everyday bag when I’m not carrying my camera. Surprisingly spacious and goes with almost any outfit. Choose a dark color—it’ll get dirty fast.

• Tote bags (1 or 2)
  Lightweight and multi-purpose: for groceries, laundry, or a book and towel when heading to the beach.

Personal Stock (from home)

Even though you can buy almost anything abroad, some personal products are irreplaceable—whether it’s your favorite concealer or a specific hair product. I’ve learned how long products last while traveling. For example, 1.5 mini bottles of cream were enough for 4 months.
Pro tip: only bring one or two of these “non-negotiables” in travel-sized containers.

Optional (if you’re a freelancer)

• Business cards
I bring a few to hand out during my travels in case someone’s interested in working together.