Backup Travel Essentials You Can’t Afford to Forget

I'm currently in Guatemala and really enjoying it!

This trip has been restorative. I've been able to explore while still having plenty of downtime.

There aren't too many tourists here, so I recommend visiting before it becomes more popular and overcrowded.
 

Not all items you pack for a trip are of equal importance. Some are so crucial that losing them could ruin your trip, so it's wise to have backups. Here are some items worthy of duplicates when traveling. Remember, as the saying goes, "Two is one and one is none."
 

• Credit Card - Regardless of your budget for the trip, if you lose access to money, it's game over. Carry multiple credit cards and store them in separate places. Be sure to bring credit cards that have no foreign transaction fees.
   
• Cell phone - Losing a cell phone while traveling can be a nightmare, especially in a foreign country where you don't know the language. Your phone is crucial for communication and navigation. Acquiring a new one in a different country can be challenging due to the need for country-specific identification. If possible, it's a good idea to pack a spare phone.
   
• Backup batteries - Your trip can come to a standstill if your phone dies, so backup batteries are crucial. Carry two, one for your outings while the other charges at your accommodation.
   

• Universal Travel Adapters - A failed universal travel adapter can be a hassle. Always carry a spare to avoid having to buy subpar versions from a local vendor.
   
• USB cables - These are easily lost, broken, or borrowed, so pack a few. They take up virtually no room.
   
• Travel documents - Keep both digital and paper copies of your itinerary and crucial documents like your passport in case they're misplaced or stolen. I knew someone whose passport and all essential documents were stolen on an international trip. They couldn't return home for some time and resorted to asking for help on Facebook. It was far from an ideal situation.
   
• Glasses/contact lenses - Seeing is somewhat important when traveling, so bring an extra pair of glasses/contact lenses.

• Headphones - Bluetooth headphones are great, but can run out of battery or get lost due to their small size. Carry a spare pair, and a wired set for in-flight entertainment.
   
• Underwear - Should go without saying. Don’t be nasty.

While I advocate for packing light, some items are too important to risk. The key is to bring a backup of any item you absolutely need and can't easily replace locally.

Happy Travels!

What spare travel accessories do you bring on your trips?

Cocktail of the Week

The Rebujito cocktail originated in the Andalusian region of Spain, particularly during the annual Feria de Abril (April Fair) in Seville. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for the warm Andalusian climate and is often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Recipe:

1.  2 parts dry sherry (such as Fino or Manzanilla)
2. 1 part lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
3. Ice
4. Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour the dry sherry over the ice.
3. Top up with lemon-lime soda.
4. Gently stir to mix.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired

Random Travel Thought

If you’re a parent on a flight, keep your badass kids in check.

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

View Previous Posts