Are you looking for practical travel essentials to make your next trip smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable?
If so, you’re in the right place!
We’re Eli and Serge, the duo behind the Discovering Destinations Blog and YouTube channel. Although we started sharing our travel tips online more recently, our travel journey began back in 2009. It all started with a spark—meeting in June 2009 and taking off on our first international adventure together just a month later. We explored Europe from London to Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, France, and back again.
Fast forward 15+ years and 30+ countries later—we’ve explored everything from paradisiac beaches in Brazil and Mexico to chilly cities in Ireland and Canada, plus vibrant cultural hubs like Greece and Colombia. Over time, we’ve learned a thing or two about what to pack and—more importantly—what to leave behind.
This blog post is packed with travel essentials that will help you feel confident, prepared, and stress-free—whether you’re heading to Greece, exploring Europe, or planning a weekend getaway. These tips are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Bonus: Don’t forget to download our FREE Travel Essentials Checklist at the end to get organized fast and pack like a pro.
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Why a Travel Essentials Checklist Matters
A well-prepared travel essentials checklist can make a huge difference in the quality of your trip. It helps you pack with intention, avoid the chaos of last-minute shopping, and even save money—money that you could spend on a unique experience or meaningful souvenirs instead.
Here’s why creating a packing list ahead of time is so important:
- Ensures you bring only what you need
- Reduce stress and last-minute shopping
- Save money by bringing the right items from home
- Helps maintain your health and safety during travel
- Saves time at your destination
- Prevents overpacking and unexpected baggage fees
- Reduces stress and allows you to focus on the experience
And the most important: It also frees your mind to focus on what matters most—creating memorable travel experiences.
Top Travel Essentials to Stay Comfortable and Stress-Free Anywhere
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick checklist of our must-have travel essentials for a stress-free and comfortable trip—no matter where we’re headed.
- Universal travel adapter
- Lightweight power bank
- First-aid basics
- Prescription medication
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable footwear
- Compact rain jacket
- Foldable daypack or small backpack
These are the travel essentials we truly can’t imagine traveling without—especially after spending two unforgettable months exploring Europe back in 2017 and again during our 25-day Greece road trip in May 2024, including a 2-day city break in Athens.
We’ve learned the hard way that what you pack can seriously affect the flow of your trip—whether you’re walking ancient ruins, hopping between cities, or chasing sunsets on a Greek island.
Now, let’s break down each item and share exactly why it earned a permanent spot in our luggage. From practical tools to comfort must-haves, these are our top packing tips to help you stay prepared and stress-free on your next adventure.
Universal Travel Adapter
If you’re traveling internationally, a universal travel adapter is a must-have on your travel essentials checklist. It allows you to charge your devices in multiple countries without carrying different adapters for each region.
For example, during our trip to Europe, we noticed that Greece and Ireland use completely different plug types—Type C/F in Greece and Type G in Ireland. With just one universal adapter, we were able to charge all our gear without any hassle. It’s a small investment that saves space, time, and a lot of frustration!
Bonus tip: Look for one with USB ports!
- International Travel Adapter: Covers over 200 countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Greece, Israel (Type C …
- 5 in 1 International Power Adapter: Provides a universal AC outlet and 2xUSB-C +2xUSB- A charging ports, AC output: 100-…
- High speed USB-C: USB-C port 3A/5V output, enable double speed charging phones, tablets at a full 3-amp rate, USB-C port…
Lightweight Power Bank
Since we usually travel at a rhythm where we leave our hotel or accommodation in the morning and only return late in the day, a lightweight power bank for travel is an absolute must. It keeps your phone, camera, and GPS fully charged throughout the day—especially when you’re out exploring ancient ruins, wandering through old towns, or hiking off-the-beaten-path trails.
Staying charged while traveling is essential—not just for navigation, but also for capturing memories and staying connected.
- [From INIU–the SAFE Fast Charge Pro] Experience the safest charging with over 38 million global users. At INIU, we use …
- [Market’s Thinnest 10000mAh] The market’s one and only 0.5-inch power bank that breaks the limit of 10000mAh, easily sli…
- [Only 5% Got USB-C IN&OUT] INIU is the only 5% of power banks got a USB-C IN&OUT port. Unlike others only recharge via U…
First-Aid Basics
I (Eli) started carrying a small first-aid travel kit back when I used to travel frequently for work. It quickly became a habit—and an essential one! Now, especially when Serge and I travel together, I never leave without it. Whether we’re hiking in the mountains or simply spending the day exploring a city, it’s always better to be prepared.
Don’t rely on finding a pharmacy while you’re on the go—especially if you’re in a remote area or don’t speak the local language. We always pack a few health essentials for travel, including:
- Band-Aids for unexpected blisters or scrapes
- Pain relievers for headaches or long travel days
- Antihistamines in case of allergic reactions or seasonal allergies
It’s a small kit that takes up almost no space but can make a big difference in your comfort and travel safety.
- Comprehensive First Aid Supplies–Our first aid kit includes 100 carefully selected items to effectively address a wide …
- Compact & Portable–Despite housing a vast array of supplies, this emergency kit is designed to be compact and easy to c…
- Organized for Quick Access–The kit’s organized, user-friendly design ensures that each essential item is easily accessi…
Basic and Prescription Medication
During our two-month trip across Europe in 2016—especially after spending 10 days in Portugal—I (Eli) learned a valuable travel lesson the hard way. After experiencing some climate changes, I developed a sore throat, something I usually treated easily back home with over-the-counter medicine. But guess what? I had forgotten to pack it… and buying the same product in another country isn’t always simple—especially if the local language isn’t one you speak.
This experience taught us the importance of packing the medications you’re used to—even the basic ones. And if you take prescription medication, it’s even more important. Many countries won’t recognize prescriptions from abroad, and some medications may not even be available under the same name or dosage.
So here’s our tip:
- Always bring enough prescription medication for your entire trip—plus a few extra days, just in case.
- Carry them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription if possible.
- Don’t assume you’ll find the same medications abroad, especially if you’re not fluent in the local language.
It’s a simple but essential step to stay healthy and avoid unnecessary stress during your trip.
Stay Hydrated with a Reusable Water Bottle
One of our must-have travel essentials—whether we’re hiking through nature or exploring city streets—is a reusable water bottle. We never travel without one.
Not only does it help us stay hydrated while traveling, but it also reduces plastic waste and supports more eco-friendly travel habits. It’s a simple item that makes a big impact—both for your health and the environment.
In many parts of Europe, including Greece, Portugal, and Germany, you’ll find public refill stations or safe tap water readily available. That means fewer single-use plastic bottles and more money saved—especially if you’re traveling for several weeks like we did during our 25-day road trip across Greece.
Whether you’re spending the day in Athens or venturing into a remote mountain village, carrying a refillable water bottle is a smart, sustainable move.
- 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
- Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to swig from the s…
- Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
Comfortable Footwear – The Right Shoes Can Make or Break Your Day
If you’re thinking about wearing high heels while exploring Paris or Athens, let us stop you right there—it’s probably not the best idea. Sure, if you’re planning to stay inside your hotel or just walk a short distance to a nearby restaurant, go for it. But if you want to actually discover the city, trust us—comfort is key.
When we travel, especially around Europe, we usually explore cities on foot. It’s the best way to soak in the atmosphere, stumble upon hidden gems, and take in all the beauty. But that also means a lot of walking—on uneven cobblestone streets, up long staircases, and even climbing historical sites like churches or castles.
From the ancient ruins in Athens to the stone staircases of Irish castles, we’ve learned one thing: the wrong shoes can ruin your day. Blisters, sore feet, or shoes that just can’t keep up will slow you down and take away from the experience.
Pro Tip: Today, there are so many stylish and comfortable travel shoes on the market—you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. Find a pair that gives you support and cushioning, and you’ll be able to walk miles without feeling it.
Don’t Let the Rain Ruin Your Trip – Pack a Reliable Rain Jacket
There are many things we can’t control while traveling—and the weather is one of them. Even with a 14-day forecast, Mother Nature is unpredictable. But that’s totally fine—as long as you’re prepared.
During our 2-month trip across Europe, we experienced all kinds of climates—from sunny days in France, to chilly mornings in Germany, to rainy afternoons in Finland. Having a reliable rain jacket truly made a difference. It turned out to be one of our most valuable travel essentials.
And here’s a little personal lesson: I (Eli) once bought an expensive, stylish rain jacket thinking it would do the job. Spoiler alert—it didn’t. After being completely soaked during a rainy day, I never wore it again. That’s when I learned it’s not about the brand or the price tag—it’s about functionality, waterproofing, and packability.
A great foldable rain jacket won’t take up much space in your backpack, but it can save your entire day when the weather turns.
Some brands we personally trust and have used over the years include:
- Columbia – Lightweight, breathable, and truly waterproof
- The North Face – Durable and reliable in harsher conditions
- Helly Hansen – Great for coastal or very wet climates
Extra Tip: Look for features like waterproof zippers, ventilation, and adjustable hoods. And always read product reviews to make sure it’s really waterproof—not just water-resistant.
Small backpack or Foldable daypack
After listing all these travel essentials, it’s important to remember that you’ll need something to carry them with you during the day.
That’s why we always recommend bringing a small backpack, or even better, a foldable daypack. It’s super handy for day trips, hikes, or simply keeping your essentials close while exploring a new city.
It’s also worth noting that in many places around the world—including where we live in Montreal—plastic bags are no longer provided in shops. So having a reusable backpack isn’t just practical, it’s also sustainable. You’ll be surprised how often it comes in handy!
- Large panel loading main compartment provides accessibility to inside contents
- Dual stretch mesh side pockets provide additional storage options
- The multi-function interior sleeve can be used for either a hydration reservoir or tablet
Travel Safety Essentials: Protect What Matters
Now that we’ve covered everything you need for a comfortable and stress-free trip, there’s one more topic we can’t leave out—travel safety.
After traveling together for over 15 years—and sometimes even apart for work—we’ve had our fair share of wake-up calls. Whether in Europe, South America, or during stopovers in North America, we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) the importance of keeping our documents and valuables secure.
I (Eli) once had my credit card cloned while buying something through an iPad at the New York airport. And sadly, we’ve had friends lose an entire pouch containing family passports and documents. Situations like these are stressful, and often avoidable with just a little extra preparation.
To help you travel with peace of mind, here are the security essentials we always pack to protect our personal belongings and sensitive information:
RFID-Blocking Wallet or Card Sleeves
These are one of our top travel safety must-haves. RFID protection helps guard your credit cards and passport against wireless identity theft, which is more common in crowded places like airports and public transit hubs. We use ours on every trip.
- Advanced RFID secure sleeve designed to protect credit cards, money cards, identification cards from electronic fraud or…
- Made from special RFID blocking material, this credit cards holder is thin and lightweight; certified secure sleeves for…
- RFID sleeve with electronic armor is the identity theft protection for your bank cards; this credit card and ID holder p…
Money Belt or Neck Pouch – RFID Protected Waist Wallet
We don’t use these every day, but they’re perfect for airports, also for when visiting busy tourist areas, taking overnight trains, or walking around with large crowds. They keep your valuables out of sight and close to your body—ideal for peace of mind.
Many also come with built-in RFID protection and extra slots for boarding passes, SIM cards, or emergency cash. It’s a simple way to keep everything important in one place.
- Ultimate Comfort: Light, comfortable, and slim, this belt is the perfect travel accessory whether you are an occasional …
- Invest In Quality: Don’t risk getting stuck while travelling. Premium YKK Zippers, 210D water-resistant nylon, premium s…
- Includes Theft Insurance And Lifetime Recovery Service For Lost Items: $250 Theft Insurance to reimburse you if items ar…
Digital Copies of Important Documents
One of the smartest things we do before every trip is scan our passports, ID cards, travel insurance, and even visa documents. We store them in secure cloud storage, so even if something gets lost or stolen, we can quickly access a copy.
These safety essentials may seem small, but they can prevent big travel headaches.
With the right gear and a bit of planning, you can enjoy your trip with confidence—knowing your valuables are secure and your memories are protected.
Specialized Essentials: Packing for Specific Destinations
Whether it’s the sunny coastlines of South America, the turquoise waters of Cuba and Mexico, or the scenic beaches of Europe, we’ve had the chance to explore many different beach destinations. And one thing we’ve learned is that not all beaches are the same—and neither is how you pack for them.
Based on our personal experiences, we’ve noticed some key differences that can slightly change your beach packing list depending on where you’re headed.
Let’s take a look at a few examples to help you pack smarter for your next beach getaway:
Rocky Beach Essentials (e.g., Europe)
We absolutely love beach destinations. But if you’re used to soft, sandy beaches—like many in Brazil—you might be surprised when visiting beaches in Europe, especially in regions like Puglia (Italy), the Amalfi Coast, or Greece.
Want to see what rocky beach travel looks like? Check out our YouTube channel for beach vlogs and take notes of more tips!
Most beaches in these areas are rocky or pebbled, and you won’t always find nearby shops selling beach gear like you would in Brazil. That’s why it’s better to be prepared in advance and bring your own essentials.
Here’s what we recommend based on our experience visiting places like Santorini and the Peloponnese:
- Water shoes – to protect your feet from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces – View on Amazon
- Quick-drying towels – light and compact for easy travel – View on Amazon
- Sturdy beach mat – essential on rocky ground – View on Amazon
- Foldable beach bag – for easy packing and carrying – View on Amazon
- Sun hat and sunglasses – the sun can be intense even with cooler water – View Sun hats on Amazon
Extra Tip: Standard flip-flops didn’t work well for us on rocky beaches—water shoes made a big difference!
Sandy Beach Essentials (e.g., Brazil)
For sandy beach destinations like those in Brazil—especially where Eli grew up near the coast—the vibe is totally different. Many beaches have vendors walking by selling everything from towels to flip-flops and sunscreen.
Curious about Brazilian beach vibes? Watch our Florianópolis vlogs to see it all in action!
That said, it’s still smart to pack a few essentials to avoid unnecessary spending or long walks to find what you need:
- Sand-resistant beach blanket – easier to shake off and pack up – See on Amazon
- High-SPF sunscreen – The tropical sun is strong, even on cloudy days—so don’t underestimate it! We always go for SPF 50 or higher to stay protected during long hours outdoors.
- Flip-flops – Perfect for hot sand and casual walks. Havaianas are a Brazilian favorite—which is exactly why I love them! – See on amazon
- Waterproof or sand-proof beach bag – protects your gear from the elements – See on Amazon
- Lightweight umbrella or wide-brim hat – crucial for shade if there are no rentals – View Sun hats on Amazon
Extra Tip: Even though it’s easy to find beach items in Brazil, the prices at beach kiosks can be higher. Having your gear already packed means more money left for a local drink, a delicious snack, or a unique souvenir.
Time-Saving and Health-Preserving Essentials
We already touched on a few of these in our core travel essentials, but we want to highlight them again—because they’re just that important. These small items may seem easy to forget, but they can seriously improve your comfort, save you time, and even help prevent health concerns during your travels.
Here are a few must-pack health and hygiene travel essentials, along with some real-life examples from our adventures:
Travel-Sized Hand Sanitizer
In some destinations, like when we traveled through Morocco on our way to the Sahara, we discovered that water wasn’t always available in public restrooms. Having a small travel-sized hand sanitizer made all the difference—it kept us feeling clean and helped avoid getting sick on the road.
- Sani-Hands hand sanitizing wipes clean hands thoroughly, removing soil as well as germs and bacteria
- A 70 percent ethyl alcohol solution offers effective germ-killing power
- The solution dries rapidly, making wipes safe to use before eating or drinking
Travel-Size Tissues
Toilet paper isn’t guaranteed everywhere! In Morocco, it was rare to find, and even in a fancy shopping mall in Berlin, we had to pay just to access it. Since then, we always carry a pack of travel tissues in our day bag. It’s a small item, but it saves you in big ways.
- Kleenex 16 Pocket Packs (10 per pack), White, Box
Compact First-Aid Kit
If you’re traveling with kids, planning outdoor activities, or heading to remote areas, don’t skip this. A compact first-aid kit has saved us more than once—like when Serge got a blister during a hike in Greece, or when we couldn’t find a pharmacy nearby during a road trip. You’ll never regret packing it.
- Comprehensive First Aid Supplies–Our first aid kit includes 100 carefully selected items to effectively address a wide …
- Compact & Portable–Despite housing a vast array of supplies, this emergency kit is designed to be compact and easy to c…
- Organized for Quick Access–The kit’s organized, user-friendly design ensures that each essential item is easily accessi…
Insect Repellent
This one isn’t just for tropical countries. In Canada, especially during hiking season, mosquitoes and black flies can be brutal. Whether we’re in the forest, near lakes, or on countryside trails, we always bring insect repellent—because itchy bites aren’t part of the adventure we planned!
Prescription Medication
If you rely on prescription medication, don’t forget it—and bring extra if possible. During longer trips, like our 2-month Europe journey, we learned that finding a pharmacy (or a doctor who speaks your language) isn’t always easy. Having a backup supply gives peace of mind when you’re far from home.
We found these items especially useful while exploring small towns and rural villages in Greece, where modern amenities weren’t always within reach. Packing smart for these situations meant fewer surprises and more time enjoying the moment.
Extra Bonus Tip: Keep these essentials in a small pouch inside your day bag, so they’re always handy when you need them. As example, smaller towns and rural areas in Greece, where amenities weren’t always immediately accessible.
- Product size: 9.0″L * 5.5″H, size suitable for makeup.
- Product Accessories: Lining and zipper.
- Opening design: easy to store small items, makeup brush, etc., to make your daily make-up, cream, lipstick, perfume and …
Packing Tips from Our 25+ Countries of Experience
After traveling together for more than 15 years (yes, since 2009!), we’ve definitely fine-tuned our packing strategy—though it took a few expensive lessons along the way.
We’ve paid our fair share of overweight luggage fees, added extra suitcases for short trips (more times than we care to admit), and learned the hard way what not to pack. But the good news? Those mistakes helped us develop a packing system that works—and we’re excited to share it with you.
While we’re preparing a full blog post dedicated to smart packing strategies, here are a few of our favorite, tried-and-true packing tips for stress-free travel:
- Roll your clothes instead of folding – It saves space, reduces wrinkles, and helps you see everything at a glance.
- Use packing cubes – They keep your luggage organized by category (we separate by activity or weather). – View on Amazon
- Bring a dedicated laundry bag – Keep worn clothes separate to stay fresh and avoid mixing dirty with clean. – View on Amazon
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane – Think jackets, hiking shoes, or sweaters—it saves tons of room in your suitcase.
- Pack a versatile scarf or shawl – Eli always brings one that works as a blanket on cold flights or a stylish beach wrap in warmer destinations.
Extra Pro Tip: Start packing a few days in advance using a checklist to avoid last-minute stress and overpacking.
Bonus Essential: Don’t Forget the Star of Many Trips – Your Photography Gear!
As a bonus to our Travel Essentials, here’s a quick reminder about something that often steals the spotlight on our adventures—photography gear!
Travel isn’t just about the places you visit—it’s about the memories you create and the moments you capture along the way. That’s why we always make space in our bags for our favorite photography gear, from a Nikon Z camera and compact GoPro to the smartphones we rely on for spontaneous shots.
Want to learn how we keep it simple but still capture amazing travel photos?
Check out our full blog post:
Travel Photography Made Easy: My Story, Gear Recommendations, and Insider Tips
It’s packed with practical advice, personal stories, and all the gear we use to document our adventures—no matter your skill level.
Lia & Serge from Discovering Destinations
Discovering Destinations: Travel Tools & Planning Tips
Traveling is exciting—but a well-planned trip can make the experience smoother and more affordable. We’ve learned through years of travel that starting early helps you find the best deals, avoid stress, and make the most of your time.
Use trusted tools to compare prices, read real traveler reviews, and book with confidence. From flights and hotels to eSIMs and local tours, these platforms have helped us—and now they can help you too.
Final Thoughts: Make Travel Easier with the Right Essentials
That’s everything we wanted to share for now—and we truly believe that with the right travel essentials and smart packing strategies, you can spend more time enjoying your trip and less time stressing over what you forgot.
We created this guide to help travelers like you simplify your travel prep. Whether you’re heading to Athens for a weekend getaway or planning a longer road trip around Greece, being well-prepared makes all the difference.
If you found this list helpful, feel free to share your own must-have travel essentials in the comments—we’d love to hear your tips!
Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more destination inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories.
🎒 And before you go—make sure to download your FREE Travel Planner & Packing Checklist to help you stay organized, reduce stress, and make the most of your next adventure!
Wishing you safe and happy travels,
Eli & Serge
Discovering Destinations
