Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Pack Light With These Versatile Clothing Items

Globetrotters know that the key to enjoying any trip is packing light. Lugging around heavy bags can put a real damper on exploring a new destination. The solution? Build your travel wardrobe around versatile clothing items that allow you to mix and match outfits.

Nothing beats a classic pair of dark skinny jeans when it comes to versatility. They can easily be dressed up with heels and a silky blouse for evenings out or dressed down with sneakers and a t-shirt for daytime adventures. Black or indigo denim is ideal since it won't show dirt and stains.

Another travel essential is the maxi dress, which provides a chic look in a fuss-free silhouette. Maxi dresses take you from sightseeing to soirées with just a few strategic accessories. Look for a sleeveless column dress in a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabric like viscose or polyester. Then simply add a cropped jacket or cardigan to create layered looks.

The ultralight puffer jacket delivers cozy warmth without weighing down your bag. Today's styles are sleek and compressible, so they take up minimal suitcase space. A puffer jacket made with PrimaLoft insulation provides lasting comfort across a wide range of climates and elevations. Pop one on over your maxi dress or jeans when temps dip.

Nothing dresses up an outfit like the perfect blazer. But typical blazers take up a ton of luggage real estate. The solution? A lightweight blazer that folds down small. Choose one made with polyester or nylon that easily shakes out wrinkles. Neutral tones like black, navy or gray pair well with nearly everything.

Of course, no capsule travel wardrobe is complete without the perfect t-shirt. Skip heavy cotton tees and opt for moisture-wicking performance fabrics that keep you cool and dry on the go. Merino wool tees control odors so you can re-wear them between washes. And don't forget the bathing suit! Packing a supportive, quick-drying bikini or one-piece opens up opportunities for beach days, pool dips and impromptu adventures.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Stay Charged On The Go With Portable Batteries And Adapters

There’s nothing more frustrating than having your phone or tablet die when you’re trying to navigate a new place. But globetrotters have an ace up their sleeve: portable batteries and travel adapters. These compact, lightweight accessories can keep your devices juiced up and ready for anything.

Having a portable battery pack eliminates worrying about your phone going dead just when you need maps or translation apps. High-capacity power banks from Anker, Mophie, and RAVPower now allow multiple full phone charges from a slim battery you can tuck in your daypack or purse. Consider your power needs - a 10,000 mAh battery should cover most trips unless you’ll be off the grid. Look for key features like high-speed charging capability, built-in cables, and an LED indicator displaying remaining battery level.

To charge on the go, portable solar panels from makers like BigBlue and Renogy harness the sun’s rays. Unfold the panel and hang it on your pack as you trek or tuck it in a sunny cafe window while you grab lunch. Anker even offers pocket-sized 5W solar chargers for topping up small devices. Having backup power means you can use your phone freely without “battery anxiety.”

Of course, all those batteries are useless overseas without the right plug adapter. Outlets vary wildly, so a universal adapter kit is a globetrotter essential. Versatile options from OREI, Ceptics, and LACK contain interchangeable slide-on plugs to click into the main USB-equipped adapter body.

Compact travel adapters like the Mu One from Bluegogo or the Zendure Passport GO plug directly into outlets then supply dual USB ports to charge up to three devices at once. Melted plugs from overheating are a common travel mishap, so quality matters.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Capture Those Picture-Perfect Moments With A Lightweight Camera

Snap-happy globetrotters know that compelling travel photos make memories last. And while phone cameras keep improving, nothing beats the image quality of a dedicated point-and-shoot or mirrorless camera. The dilemma is that traditional DSLR rigs weigh you down. The solution? A slim, lightweight camera that fits in your pocket.

Leading the pack is the Sony RX100 series, a perennial favorite among frequent fliers. Now in its seventh iteration, the RX100 VII packs a 1-inch sensor, 24-200mm zoom lens, and 20fps continuous shooting into a body lighter than a can of soda. You get DSLR-level image quality with no excess baggage. The built-in retractable viewfinder allows composing shots in bright sunlight when viewing the rear LCD is nearly impossible.

Another solid contender is the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II. Like the Sony, it incorporates a large 1-inch sensor with a bright Leica zoom lens in a trim, carry-anywhere body. The Lumix also shoots silky-smooth 4K video, so you can immortalize street scenes and atmospheric moments. Physical dials provide instinctive access to essential exposure controls.

Prefer an interchangeable lens model? The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV hits a sweet spot for traveling mirrorless shooters. The retro styling houses 5-axis stabilization, 30fps burst mode, and a bevy of art filters. You can also shoot filtered black and white photos right in the camera. Pair it with a diminutive prime lens like the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.8 for tack-sharp images with dreamy background blur.

Of course, you need to protect your investment on the road. A padded camera cube like those made by Tenba and Lowepro keeps your gear secure. Use individual lens pouches to prevent scratches. A sturdy strap from companies like Peak Design and BlackRapid lets you carry the camera hands-free. And don't forget spare batteries and memory cards!

Once home, reliving favorite moments is easier than ever. Bluetooth paired instant printers like the Canon Ivy, Kodak Step, and Polaroid Zip allow creating 2x3” keepsake prints to share or display. Just connect your phone, select an image, and watch photos print out in under a minute. They are perfect for scrapbooking your adventures.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Travel Wallet Keeps Your Essentials Secure And Organized

A streamlined travel wallet is a road warrior’s best friend when it comes to staying organized on the go. Nothing slows you down like frantically rummaging through your bag for your passport, boarding pass, or credit card. The right travel wallet keeps all your essentials neatly arranged so you can breeze through security and pay for cabs or meals seamlessly.

You have plenty of wallet options, but globetrotters rave about slim, minimalist designs that optimize interior space. Popular picks include the NOMATIC Wallet and the Bellroy Travel Wallet. Both sport RFID-blocking technology to safeguard payment info from high-tech pickpockets. The NOMATIC features handy pull-out tabs for quick access to your most-used cards and IDs. While the Bellroy impresses with its beautiful environmentally certified leather and useful pen slots.

Frequent flyer Melissa S. loves the versatility of her compact Venture 4-Way travel wallet by Kate Spade New York. “It has slots for my ID, boarding passes, cash, and most-used credit cards, plus some extra room for stashing receipts and random paper. The removable wristlet strap makes it easy to grab and go through airport security.” Minimalists might prefer a simple passport holder like the Kinzie Street line from Leatherology, which focus solely on the essentials.

Travel wallets come in a spectrum of styles with innovative organizational features. For maximum capacity, the Tumi Alpha 3 Multi-Window Travel Wallet includes two see-through plastic pockets for displaying ID and other cards, eliminating the need to open your wallet at checkpoints. Road warriors laud its durability and abundance of pockets. The travel wallet by Swiss digital luggage experts Bluesmart features Bluetooth and GPS tracking so you can actually find your lost wallet by pinging it from your phone.

While a quality leather or nylon travel wallet holds up well, it helps to be vigilant. Traveler pro Tiffany H. recommends, “Always keep your wallet in a front pocket rather than a back one to deter pickpockets. I also loop a sturdy cloth lanyard through the wallet that attaches to my belt loop or bag strap for extra security in crowded places.” A crossbody purse is another smart option.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Stay Healthy And Hydrated With Reusable Water Bottle And Sanitizer

Staying healthy and hydrated is crucial when you’re exploring new destinations. Nothing derails a trip faster than getting sick. Globetrotters rely on reusable water bottles and hand sanitizer to fend off germs and illness.

Having your own BPA-free water bottle allows you to stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic bottles that clutter landfills. It also saves money since you can fill up your bottle for free at most airports, cafes, and hotels. Hydration is important when contending with dry air on planes, exposure to the sun, and walking long city blocks.

“I never leave home without my 24 oz Hydro Flask water bottle,” says frequent traveler Chris S. “It keeps cold water cold for hours and has saved me a ton of money. The wide mouth fits ice cubes and is easy to clean.” Other popular choices are durable bottles from Yeti, Klean Kanteen, S’well, and CamelBak. Consider a collapsible silicone bottle as a packable option.

Look for a bottle with an integrated straw or sport cap for convenient sipping on the move. Carabiners, sleeves, and paracord allow you to clip or tie your bottle to a daypack or suitcase handle. A good wash with soap and a bottle brush keeps bacteria at bay.

Of course, one of the surest ways to stay healthy abroad is vigilant hand hygiene. When water and soap aren’t available, hand sanitizer is your best friend. Stock a small 3 oz bottle in your carry on or purse. Before eating or touching your face, give your hands a good rubdown.

Frequent traveler Amanda P. says, “I swear by hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol. Good brands include Purell, Germ-X, and EO. A small bottle lasts a surprisingly long time and gives me peace of mind when I can’t immediately wash up before meals.”

Other globetrotters prefer portable hand washing solutions like the Scrubba Wash Bag. Simply add a bit of water and soap then scrub hands vigorously inside the airtight pouch. For further protection, some travelers pack disinfecting wipes to sanitize airplane tray tables, armrests, and hotel surfaces.

When straight water isn’t appealing, adding electrolyte tablets can make hydrating more enticing. Brands like Nuun, Ultima Replenisher, and Hydralyte add a light flavor, minerals, and key electrolytes lost through sweat. This helps avoid dehydration and muscle cramps when exercising or adventuring in warmer climates. They easily tuck into your toiletry kit.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Noise-Canceling Headphones For Drowning Out Loud Planes And Trains

Nothing disrupts that in-flight nap or music session like the dull roar of jet engines or crying babies. On trains, the click-clack of wheels on rails makes tuning out your neighbors nearly impossible. That's where noise-canceling headphones shine. These high-tech headphones use internal microphones to identify distracting ambient sounds then generate opposing sound waves that effectively cancel them out. The result? Your music and movies are heard in blissful clarity and quiet.

Frequent flyer Max R. gushes, "My Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones are pure magic. They completely mute the loud plane noises and engine rumble, so I can actually hear my podcasts and get some rest." Other perennial favorites include the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Technics EAH-AZ70W. Key features that provide the best noise reduction include over-ear designs that fully enclose the ears, snug earpads that form a tight seal, and multiple external microphones that pick up noises to cancel.

The ability to charge via USB rather than clunky batteries also appeals to globetrotters. Louis F. says, "Being able to charge my Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 headphones through my mobile battery or laptop USB is so convenient when I'm bouncing around hostels." Some models like the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 even offer up to 40 hours of listening on a single charge so you can tunefully tour for days untethered.

Active noise canceling isn't just for aviation and rail travel. Wanderluster Naomi H. uses her Cowin E7 Pros to create an oasis of silence in her bustling hostel dorm. She explains, "I pop them on with some white noise and it's like having my own private hotel room!" They also come in handy for blocking out conversation at crowded cafes and lively street scenes when you need to focus.

If you'll be making calls on noisy transit, look for noise-canceling headphones with built-in microphones like the Jabra Elite 85h. The mics eliminate background sounds so call recipients only hear your voice loud and clear. For iPhone devotees, the AirPods Pro with transparency mode allow you to let in ambient sound when needed while otherwise providing a personalized noise-canceling barrier.

One tip from frequent flyer Curtis T: "Bring an airline adapter so you can plug your headphones directly into in-flight entertainment systems. The sound quality is much better than airline headphones." Companies like Twelve South design headphones adapters specifically for air travel. And don't forget a quality case to protect your investment when stuffed in your pack. For under $20, the Avantree hard case safeguards most over-ear headphones.

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - TSA-Approved Luggage Makes Breezing Through Security A Breeze

Frequent flyers know that navigating airport security can be a tedious chore. Long lines, confusing rules, and frequent bag searches slow things down. But savvy globetrotters have a secret weapon - TSA-approved luggage equipped with authorized locks. This special gear allows security officers to inspect your bags quickly and easily, letting you speed through checkpoints.

TSA agent Murray explains, “We look for luggage with special locks that we can open and relock with a master key. This avoids forcing passengers back to the ticket counter because we had to break locks to search bags." Brands like Victorinox, Delsey, and Samsonite now manufacture TSA-accepted luggage with built-in combination locks.

Travelers should look for the words “TSA lock" or locks embossed with "accepted and recognized by TSA." You can also purchase TSA-approved padlocks from Master Lock, Lewis N. Clark, and Acrodo. Be sure to register the lock combination with the manufacturer so agents can access it.

Pro travel hacker Alicia V. swears by her hardshell Samsonite suitcase with integrated TSA-approved locks. She shares, "I never get stopped or searched at security anymore. The agents can access the locks with their master key, take a quick look, lock it back up and send me on my way. It's been a total game changer."

For carry-ons, transparent toiletries bags also speed the screening process. Chris Y. suggests, "I use a clear TSA liquids bag from Bagail so officers can see my bottles side-on. This avoids them having to unzip and rummage around looking for liquids." Clear bags from brands like Lewis N. Clark take things one step further with printed outlines showing exactly where to place your liquids, gels, aerosols and creams.

Some experienced road warriors enroll in TSA PreCheck to breeze through special expedited security lanes. After passing a background check, members enjoy a fast-tracked experience without removing shoes, laptops, liquids or belts. TSA agent Simone confirms, "We can process TSA PreCheck travelers much quicker with less bag searching. I highly recommend enrolling.”

Globetrotters Reveal Their Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2023 - Protect Your Belongings With Travel Insurance And Hidden Money Belt

You've spent months planning the perfect getaway and invested in great luggage and gear to document every magical moment. The last thing any globetrotter wants is to have belongings lost, stolen or damaged along the way. But mishaps can and do happen, even to seasoned travelers. How can you safeguard your cherished possessions on the road? The answer lies in travel insurance and hidden storage.

While we hope for smooth sailing, travel disruptions are a reality. Flight cancellations, weather delays, lost luggage, and trip interruptions can leave you scrambling. That's where travel insurance can be a lifesaver according to road warrior Jordan K. "When winter storms forced an extra three days in Munich, travel insurance allowed me to get reimbursed for hotels and meals. And when the airline lost my bag on the way home, they covered the cost to replace my clothes and toiletries."

Comprehensive policies from Allianz, Travelex, and World Nomads cover medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip delays and interruptions. Some plans even cover rental car damage or the high cost of pet lodging if your return is delayed. Just be sure to read the fine print on exclusions. Budget-friendly policies start around $100 per trip. According to travel blogger Leah S, "Travel insurance gives me peace of mind. I see it like car insurance - you hope to never need it but are grateful to have it if disaster strikes."

In addition to insurance, frequent flyers rely on hidden storage to secure valuables like passports, cash, credit cards and keys. Clever under-clothing solutions include hidden wallet pockets, pouches sewn into the lining of pants or shorts, and wearable belts with zippered compartments. Traveler fave CleverTravelCompanion offers The Original hidden pocket underwear and bra tanks with secret inner pouches.

For men, the FlipBelt active belt hides a zippered section against the body. Travelwell makes undershirts and boxers with inside pockets to thwart pickpockets. Scarves, shawls and neck pouches let you stash documents and money discreetly under layers. Going shoeless? Stash keys and cash in lightweight waterproof pockets that attach to your laces, like FlipFlop Locker.