Whenever you travel, you know you've got to plan ahead on what to bring. After all, you want to have the best possible equipment to enjoy the journey. 

Unfortunately, knowing what that actually is can be challenging sometimes. You don’t always have a clear idea of what you’ll need, once you’re making your way around the planet (or what's available to purchase wherever you are going).

We're here to help! This article will explore the essentials required no matter where you travel. Here’s everything you need to know: 

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Top of the list of products to take with you on your next adventure is noise-canceling headphones. These come in handy whenever you take any form of flight or public transportation. Devices emit a special sound pattern that neutralizes incoming waves, allowing you to drift off to sleep in peace or simply listen to your favorite podcast without the noise from the hustle and bustle of travel. 

Travel Pillow

Travel pillows are another essential for international trips. Again, these come in handy if you ever need to sleep in an upright position (which is quite common!).

Travel pillows come in various formats. The best are those that fold down easily and store in your hand luggage, ready to take out when you need them. 

Portable Wi-Fi

You might also want to explore portable Wi-Fi solutions, especially if you need an internet connection while traveling. These are helpful for anyone looking to work while traveling or who just wants to stay in touch with the folks back home. 

Language Translation Apps

As AI advances, language translation apps are also becoming more popular for people traveling from one destination to another. These let you converse with anyone in virtually any country, regardless of where you go, saving you countless hours memorizing dozens of languages. And while it's good to know the basics of a language wherever you are going, a little assist here is not only polite to those with whom you're interacting, but also smooths your travel path.

E-Reader

While they might not have a long product life cycle, e-readers are another great travel accessory. These make it pleasant to read your favorite novel on the beach or by the pool, even in direct sunlight (much better than using your smartphone). 

E-readers are usually pretty cheap and robust, and you can put them in your travel bag or suitcase. They also come connected to various apps, like Kobo or Libby, where you can download more reading material through your existing library. 

Travel Journey

It’s not essential, but taking a travel journal with you on your next trip helps you record what happens and create memories forever. You can remember the context behind all your photos in more vivid detail, making the entire experience more enjoyable. 

Compact Camera

Taking a compact camera with you can also be a nice touch (and helps you avoid relying on your smartphone all the time which might not be safe). Many compact cameras still continue films you can develop. Or you can get models that print out the photos after you take them, letting you stick them in your scrapbook immediately. 

Sunscreen

Last but not least, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen. You’ll need it if you’re heading anywhere even remotely close to the equator (and if you're fair-skinned, at any time of day). This is especially important to bring if you plan on visiting high-altitude locations. 

What do you also pack? We'd love to hear.

Photos via Unsplash - CC0 License