Always carry your ID card or Passport
True story guys, I once saw a guy who forgot to carry his ID card at the bus station when I was boarding from Boston. A driving license/ a passport is not only an important identification document, but also useful when you’d want to order a drink at a bar or withdraw/ exchange money from a bank/ money exchanging boot. Always carry a passport holder for international travel, it comes in super handy.
Money and Credit cards
Never ever forget to carry some local currency and at least a couple of credit/debit cards. I always carry some amount of USD for my local and international travel and it has come in handy when you can’t withdraw money from an ATM. Some countries in Asia or smaller towns in Europe still accept only cash and you wouldn’t want to be in a situation without any money.
Cellphone and electronic devices with their necessary accessories
We live in a world where the cellphone is practically a part of hand now and I can’t do without it. Always make sure to carry its charger and its necessary accessories. I would highly recommend investing in a battery pack to carry around when especially you are spending most of the time on the road. If you are carrying a camera or a laptop, make sure you carry the necessary charges and cables. Do make sure to carry a travel adaptor while traveling internationally.
Medicines including first aid kit
I can’t stress enough to carry basic medicines and first aid supply kit, especially when traveling abroad. Every country has a different prescription policy and may not be available in every dosage form.
Water Bottle
I have spent over 5£ in England to buy a 500ml water bottle, over 4$ at Empire State and contributed to a lot of usage of plastic which I don’t feel very proud about. In the past few years, I have invested a water bottle which has a water purifier and ever since then it has been my travel buddy.
Headphones
Imagine sitting on a plane or a bus without entertainment for hours! I always carry my phone and plane compliant headphone so that I don’t end up buying new ones in the plane or airports. Some flights do give free headphones and if possible try to save it for your future flights as well.
Travel Pillow
Though this one can be a personal choice, I can’t sleep without a travel pillow. Do carry it for long flights for well-rested sleep. It does enhance your long journey experience.
Clothes, undergarments, and shoes
I know you won’t travel without it, but always check the weather prior to packing. A good pair of walking shoes, a light jacket and enough clothes for your trip as per your itinerary always come in handy. I tend to travel very light and try to wear the same jeans/skirts with a different top or jacket to save space.
Sunglasses for those sunny days
I like to carry a pair of good sunglasses which will pair with all my outfits. Do carry your prescription glasses/ contact lenses in your handbag.
Snacks!
I am a hungry traveler and I always tend to carry some nuts or energy bars for every in my handbag. Carrying some mint or chewing gum is always a good idea.
Toiletries and basic accessories
I do carry travel size basic toiletries instead of relying on the hotel, Airbnb or hostel. I have come across several accommodations in Europe and North America where they don’t supply basic things like a toothbrush, toothpaste or shower caps. Make a permanent toiletry kit for all your travels. Do remember you can’t carry your full-size bottles in carry on luggage on a flight. I still get surprised when I see TSA throwing away toiletries at the airport.
Umbrella/Raincoat/Disposable rain Poncho
I don’t always carry an umbrella or a rain poncho, but I always check the weather before traveling and pack accordingly. I found these disposable rain ponchos which have come in handy in my travels and always carry if there is a rain forecast.
Maps or Guide
I am personally not a fan of guide books but I have seen some of the fellow travelers who find it handy. I tend to download offline maps on phone for emergency situations.
Journal and a Pen
I always keep a tiny book with a couple of pens to note down addresses or places I like to see. A pen always comes in handy and very useful when you are filing a landing card.
Final Word
Always make a checklist prior to your travel and keep a note in your phone/ journal for things you have packed. I like to pack at least a day before I am traveling and make sure I cross-check with my checklist before leaving for any holiday. Let me know if you guys do something different or carry anything extra apart from this list?
Travelmakesmehungry 
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