When traveling, especially internationally to all-inclusive resorts, I have recently started including a portable carbon monoxide detector in my travel bag. In the news recently, we've seen numerous incidents where people have passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly while visiting the Caribbean at all-inclusive resorts. As a travel advisor, I have updated all of my all-inclusive packing lists to include a battery-operated portable carbon monoxide detector. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, detecting it without such a device is nearly impossible. For peace of mind and safety, I recommend that everyone include one in their travel bags!
One travel essential I always tuck into my bag is a compact multi-outlet adapter with USB ports. It's something many might overlook, but it has become incredibly valuable on my travels. You see, hotel rooms, airport lounges, and even rental accommodations often seem to have a shortage of accessible power outlets. When you're juggling a phone, laptop, camera, and maybe even noise-canceling headphones, finding enough places to charge everything can become a daily mini-stressor. This little gadget is a game-changer. It allows me to plug multiple devices in at once, often turning a single wall socket into a charging hub. Plus, the built-in USB ports mean I don't have to carry a collection of bulky wall chargers. It simplifies the charging process, saves valuable time, and ensures I can always keep my essential devices powered up and ready to go, no matter where my adventures take me. It's a small item that offers a surprising amount of convenience and peace of mind.
One travel essential I always pack that most people don't think of is ginger candies. Since I'm on boats all the time and go on cruises, they've become a must-have for me. They're great for soothing your stomach and helping with seasickness, especially on days when the water gets a little choppy. Even if I'm feeling fine, I always have some on hand for anyone who might need a little help settling their stomach. Simple, tasty, and super helpful--definitely something I don't leave home without!
One travel essential that I've found indispensable is a roll of duct tape. It’s surprisingly versatile and has come to the rescue during many of my trips. For instance, it’s perfect for quick fixes like mending a torn backpack, sealing food packages to keep them fresh, or even temporarily fixing a broken suitcase handle. On a camping trip in the Rockies, duct tape even served as a temporary patch for a ripped tent, keeping the water out during an unexpected downpour. The value of duct tape goes beyond just emergency repairs. It’s also been useful for child-proofing hotel rooms by covering electrical outlets or securing drawers. This might not be the first thing you think of packing, but its multifunctional uses make it an essential tool in my travel kit. Remembering to bring items that have multiple uses not only saves space but also ensures that you're prepared for various unexpected situations.
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Nepal Hiking Team at Nepal Hiking Team
Answered a year ago
One travel essential I always pack is a buff (multi-use neck gaiter). Many travelers overlook it, but it's one of the most practical items, especially in the Himalayas. I've used it for protection against sun, wind, and dust--sometimes even as a quick face cover in colder regions. Over the years, I've seen many of our clients at Nepal Hiking Team grateful they packed one--or wishing they had. It's lightweight, takes up no space, and comes in handy in all kinds of unexpected ways. For trekking in the mountains, it's one of those simple items that makes a big difference.
I always take ear plugs when I'm traveling. They're small, easy to pack along with toiletries, and can save the night if you get a hotel with noisy neighbors. A small but mighty item.
I never travel abroad without a good notebook. It might sound old-school, but there's something about having a physical place to jot down thoughts, sketch ideas, or map out concepts that a phone or laptop just doesn't replace. Ideas always come at unexpected moments, whether it's while sitting in an airport lounge, exploring a new city, or having a conversation that sparks something new. A notebook lets me capture those thoughts without distractions. Beyond work, it becomes a personal record of the trip. I'll write down interesting materials I come across, design details that stand out, or even just small moments that I want to remember. There's a certain clarity that comes with putting pen to paper, and I've found that some of my best ideas start as rough sketches or notes in the margins of a travel journal. Of course, there are practical things I always carry too, like my passport, a solid travel adapter, and a reliable bag, but the notebook is the one thing I'd miss if I didn't have it. It's not just about work. It's a space to slow down, take in the experience, and document thoughts in a way that feels more intentional.
One travel essential I always pack is a portable water purifier. While many travelers focus on clothing and gadgets, having access to clean drinking water is crucial for health and comfort. This neat little gadget purifies water from different sources, and it makes it much easier for me to drink without having to think about what the contents may or may not be. Considering this is priceless for peace of mind, especially when you are fond of wandering into not-so-visited places, the purified drinking water is hardly available. You can save money buying bottled water, but you also save on plastic waste, something that is part of your lifestyle to conserve the environment. In the end, possessing a portable water purifier is just a great improvement in travels, since one can live conspicuously without worrying about the next drink.
I always pack a mouth guard, it's the one thing I find difficult to get in many cities. As a practitioner of Brazilian jiu jitsu wherever you go around the world gyms welcome you in to train, it's a great community. And usually the highlight of my trip. I also stop in to do yoga but a yoga mat is too big to pack. I travel everywhere internationally with carry-on luggage only and the mouthguard fits easily.