There's something about travel that makes you want to try all kinds of cool new gadgets. You look at all the tiny travel sizes of items that make you want to stock up. Even if you don't use binoculars at home, you might find yourself the proud new owner of travel binoculars, once you've booked that trip to the Galapagos. But there are hundreds - nay, thousands - of travel gadgets.  Will you actually use all these travel gadgets?  Let's whittle that list down. Here is a list of my top 5 essential travel gadgets - I can't imagine why you would NOT use them (but you could always surprise me).

1. Adaptors. Adaptors are essential for international travel. The prongs for electronic items vary around the world. Your home country's electric cords and plugs won't fit when you're halfway around the world. You can buy specific adaptors for specific countries, or purchase an all around adaptor that will somehow accommodate all of them. Buy several. Because you won't only be using one electronic item - you'll probably be using many.

2. Chargers. While those new to international travel might think that adaptors and chargers are the same thing, they are NOT. Chargers, well, charge up your electronics. Unless you have solar chargers, you will need an adaptor to go with your charger. There's no reason to blow your iphone, or worse yet, your laptop with improper power and equipment. Buy both, and buy a few of them to be sure. Scatter them (along with your adaptors) around in your carryon and in your luggage. You don't want to lose these! If you use an Essentials4Travel voucher code, you can save money while stocking up on these travel essentials.

3. Lights. Now, you might be heading to the desert and need light. That's fine. But you might also need lights in hotel rooms, on trains, in your rental car while you're navigating unknown streets, or even while reading your book late at night (why does jet lag hit YOU hard, and not your spouse?). A flashlight - small, portable, lightweight - can be a lifesaver in so many different environments. Consider your possible needs, and then take a look at the options. There are small travel flashlights, booklights, even head lamps for hands-free illumination. The main thing to consider is how the flashlight is powered. If it is battery, how long does the battery last? Is the battery rechargeable? Is the battery easily found anywhere in the world? If the flashlight is powered with a rechargeable battery, can you plug it into your computer via usb, or does it require a wall outlet plugin? Will you need to carry a recharger, or just a cord to fit it to your computer?

4. Music/speakers. Everyone loves music. And I am sure you will have plenty loaded up on your smartphone (which you can charge using those adaptors and chargers you brought). But how to share it, when you're in a hotel room and want to relax with your family, or in a car and want to listen to that awesome audiobook, or at a convivial gathering and would like some mood music? There are plenty of small, portable speakers that you can hook up to your cell phone, ipod/ipad, or laptop. This way, you're bringing the party with you, wherever you go. I am sure I don't need to say this, but I will - please be respectful of others around you - and their cultural mores.

5. Noise canceling headphones. Now, this might go against #4, above, but think of it as the opposite. Noise canceling headphones are one of the most brilliant travel inventions, ever. Noisy people on airplanes? No worries! Adjacent hotel rooms having a party? Sleep tight! Your spouse is snoring? Well, you might even wear your noise canceling headphones at home, too, then. This is the easiest way to block out unwanted noise and focus on YOUR stuff - reading, working, sleeping - you name it, you can do it in peace! Best. Investment. Ever.