Travel Essentials That Should Go in Every Man’s Bag

9 Travel Essentials No Man Should Ever Go Without

Whether it’s to another state or another country altogether, your travel experience can go two ways. It can lean on the side of smooth and uneventful, which is the outcome you’ll always want. On the flip side, things may not always go according to plan. While in transit, you might get sick, injured, or fatigued. You also shouldn’t rule out the chance of getting delayed at the airport, at the train or bus station, or at your hotel. With those scenarios in mind, what should you prepare for a safe, comfortable, and pleasant journey?

One thing you can do is pack smart. Whenever you have a trip to make, ensure that these nine essential items are always in your bag. Here’s a checklist of must-have travel essentials for every man on the go:

A Pair of Compression Socks

It would help to take along a pair of men’s compression socks, especially for long flights. Compression socks are typically designed to reduce deep vein thrombosis (DVT) while the wearer is on their feet. For those who prefer something that provides less pressure, socks with light compression qualities can also make you more comfortable during long periods of inactivity. They can reduce any pain or stiffness you get from sitting on a plane for more than five hours.

A Compilation of Important Travel Documents

It’s not enough to have your passport, wallet, and IDs on hand. Just in case anything untoward happens to you and you lose the original documents, you should always have backups of these on your person. Aside from a copy of your passport and visas, you should also have a list of emergency contacts from your home as well as from your destination. Scan these in and save soft copies on your mobile phone and tablet. It would also be good for you to have printed copies in your travel bag and suitcase.

An Extra T-shirt and a Change of Underwear

Even if you don’t end up using them, an extra T-shirt and a change of underwear are always good to have in your backpack. In case of a long delay, you can change clothes in the nearest restroom; you’ll feel refreshed and clear-headed after. Fold these up and tuck them away into a travel garment bag to keep them clean and free of wrinkles.

A Light Jacket

You never know if it’s going to rain, if there’s going to be a sudden cold breeze, or if the air conditioners will be exceptionally strong at any of your destinations. As such, you should prepare for these scenarios by packing a jacket or windbreaker in your bag. Bring a jacket that’s made out of light fabric so that you can fold it easily, and so that it doesn’t take up that much space.

A Toiletries Kit

Don’t forget to pack a small toiletries kit so that you can maintain good hygiene while you’re in transit. Your travel toiletries kit can contain a toothbrush, a small tube of toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, cleanser, moisturizer, and a small face towel. Try looking for a portable or foldable case with a small hook and multiple compartments. These features should come in handy while you’re on the go.

A First Aid Kit

For wounds, bruises, headaches, motion sickness, and other common discomforts during traveling, it’s good to pack a basic first aid kit. Yours should have some hand sanitizer, antiseptic wipes, bandages, pain relievers, antibacterial cream, and ointment, as well as any medications you may be taking.

A Power Bank

Your mobile devices are absolutely essential for travel, and you’ll need them for check-ins, digital payments, and regular communication with your loved ones. Knowing that, it would be good to have a power bank ready so that you can charge them to full power anytime. Don’t forget to recharge your power bank whenever you have the opportunity to use an outlet during your trip.

A Universal Travel Adapter

If you’ll be flying to a different country, one thing you’ll definitely need is a universal travel adapter, as the outlets in the country you’re going to may not necessarily be the same as the ones at home. Not only will this item ensure that you keep your gadgets properly charged, but it will also save you the hassle of buying new adapter plugs once you arrive at your destination.

A Refillable Water Bottle

You need to stay hydrated during your trip, especially since you’ll be on the move so often. There’s always the option to buy bottled water, but doing so will burn a quick hole in your pocket. It’s also the less environmentally friendly option; the more bottles you buy, the more plastic you add to the waste stream. That said, bring your own water bottle, and simply refill it at the airport or hotel whenever you have the chance.

Aside from these items, take along whatever else you think is essential to you, like a good pair of earphones or your favorite book. If you’re smart about what you pack, you’ll feel much more comfortable, and you’ll enjoy your trip all the better!