I spent 4 months backpacking Southeast Asia and Australia and a bit of Europe. Here are my favorite travel essentials you'll actually use!
Sections
4
Bags
Packing
Sleeping
Accessories
Bags
This is what I used. Saw A LOT of others using this too. The large bag is 55L and smaller attachable bag is 15L to equal 70. Its large and heavy, but comfortable! Feels sturdy and well made. I do wish it was slightly more square though. Opens like su...
Fairview™ 70 Travel Pack
Similar to the above, but if you want a 40L carry on size. The 70L must be checked.
Fairview™ 55 Travel Pack
For shorter trips I have this and really like it. The large bag is 40L. Also feels very sturdy. Its a carry on size, but compared to the osprey the attachable bag is 20L, I feel I can fit a lot more in the smaller daypack compared to the 15L of the o...
Thule Landmark 60 L Travel Pack - Women's | REI Co-op
Travel wallet I used! Felt safe and a good size.
Fjällräven Zip Wallet Womens - Backcountry Canada
Everyone has her and loves her. The best travel purse!
Unisex Round Mini Shoulder Bag | UNIQLO US
If you don't want to match every other backpacker, this is slightly different!
All About Mini Crescent Bag | Athleta
Another great option that's a little bigger
Medium Nylon Crescent Bag
I used this SO much. It was a lifesaver when I didn't feel like putting a lot of effort into packing my bag. Otherwise I would just clip it on when fully packed.
Lightweight Foldable Nylon Crossbody Bag
Similar to the tote I love having this fold up option as well!
Lightweight Packable Travel Camping Backpack
Such a great option if you dont want to rely on a backpack.
Blast 43L Roller Backpack
Packing
How you pack DOES matter!
Compression packing cubes are SUCH a game changer
Thule Compression Packing Cube - Medium | REI Co-op
Sometimes I like 1-2 cubes I can put sweaters or bigger things in that's not meant to be compressed.
Cubos 10 L Del Dia Travel Cube
This is the amazon version I have used as well. Unfortunately the quality of bag and zippers does make a difference!
BAGAIL 6 Set Ultralight Compression Cubes
I used these pouches to organize smaller items like headphones, chargers, etc. This is a must! Love the clip on these
COREFLEX Premium Tool Pouch 3-Pack 12in
Also used these for smaller items!
Tiny Twinkle 3-Pack Clear Travel Organizer Bags
I wanted something insulated for my meds since I was traveling in heat and leaving my luggage.. this made me feel a little better.
Small Insulated Snack Bag Lunch Box, Black
I used this and found it a little large… but very durable and waterproof! I didn't take much makeup but if you are, this would give you plenty of room.
BAGSMART Toiletry Bag for Women, Pink-Medium
Sleeping
Im a bad sleeper. If you are concerned about sleeping in loud places. This was a life saver!
LC-dolida Bluetooth 5.4 Sleep Mask w/ Headphones
The most comfy earplugs made for sleep!
Loop Dream™ Earplugs
You need some sort of eye mask for certain!
MZOO Luxury 3D Sleep Eye Mask for Side Sleepers
Tried this as well for noise when sleeping if you dont want to sleep in headphones.
Pillow Speaker Mini Bone Conduction Sleep Aid
I know this looks crazy I know but it actually works and is very comfy for airplane sleep. Best for aisle or middle seats!! It attaches to the headrest.
Eye Mask & Headrest Pillow for Travel
I love this because not only is it comfy but it has a bag to keep it in. You dont want to take your pillow around just hanging off your bag… gross!!
BUYUE Travel Neck Pillow Memory Foam 360° Grey
To save space, but also sleep, this is your best bet!
Trtl Travel Pillow Original 2.0 - Jet Black
If you have room and are flying economy… helpful!
ATEPA Inflatable Self-Inflating Seat Cushion
I didn't have room.. but some hostels can be gross!
