Ah, the age old question of the traveller, what to bring? Now, obviously the things that you need will vary depending on where you are going and when. A bikini might not be necessary in Alaska in December and a puffer jacket may not be needed island hopping in Thailand. But, there are some essentials that I have learnt will be necessary no matter where and when you are going.
A Pen (And a Spare one)
That one thing that, at least in my case, is always overlooked and forgotten until that moment it’s needed. And it will be needed. Whether you need to write down a phone number or address, fill out a customs form or write in a journal, a pen will always come in handy. No one wants to be that guy on the plane asking the people around him if he can borrow their pen for the customs form.
Map of the subway/train system
This one only really applies if you are going to a city. But, a tube map of London or a map of the subway systems of New York or a train map of Tokyo will be a godsend when your phone dies or loses signal and you are stuck on the wrong side of the city with no idea which train to catch back.
Journal
I, for one, am a fan of the travel journal. It is a way to make the intangible tangible, something that you can read and hold onto when you are old and grey. But even if you aren’t a fan of writing about your adventures, still bring a journal. It will come in handy for writing down a hostel address, bus phone number or how to say a particular phrase in the local language.
Hand sanitizer
No one likes to get sick when they are travelling and washing your hands is one of the best ways to keep the little beasties of viruses and bacteria away. Soap and water isn’t always available so a good hand sanitizer is your new best friend.
Jumper/Jacket
Obviously the size of this jacket is a little dependant on where you are going but there is one thing for certain you will need a jacket. I don’t care if you are going to Bali in mid-summer, there will be a moment on a plane, in a hotel room, somewhere, that you will need a jacket.
Water bottle
Everyone gets thirsty. Avoid wasting your money and killing the ocean by buying a water bottle every time you are thirsty and bring a re-useable water bottle. Fill it up before you leave in the morning and during the day a lot of cities now have water fountains or most restaurants will be happy to fill it up for you.
Blessed are the Curious 