The Traveller's Essentials: 10 Items I Pack for Any Adventure

The Traveller's Essentials: 10 Items I Always Pack for Any Adventure

Traveling can be exhilarating, but it can also be a whirlwind of unexpected adventures and minor mishaps. Over the years of leading retreats to exotic international locations, I've honed my packing skills and have curated a list of essential items that never fail to come in handy, no matter where in this world my wanderlust takes me. Here are the 10 things that always find their way into my suitcase:

Sarong: The Ultimate Travel Multi-Tool
A sarong is the ultimate multitasker in my travel arsenal. From serving as a towel on sandy shores to doubling as a shoulder cover in temples, it's also my go-to meditation shawl and savasana cover. Talk about multitasking.

Earplugs: Saving Sanity, One Snore at a Time
Hotels may offer plush pillows and luxurious amenities, but they often come with a side of unexpected noise. That's where my trusty earplugs come in handy. I recently upgraded to silicone ones by Loop, and let me tell you, they're a game-changer for sleep-deprived travellers like myself.

Knife: Cutting Through Travel Troubles (Literally)
I used to carry a Swiss Army knife with allegedly 108 different functions—until I realised I only ever used the knife. Now, I opt for a small sheathed utility knife like this one, which fits neatly in my suitcase. Bonus points for a small pair of scissors, because you never know when you'll need to snip your way out of a tight spot.

Hard Copies of Loved Ones' Phone Numbers: A Blast from the Past
In this age of digital dependence, it's easy to forget the importance of old-school solutions. That's why I always stash hard copies of my loved ones' phone numbers in the lining of my suitcase. Because who knows when you'll need to make a call without a smartphone?

Dehydrated Towel Tablets: Small But Mighty
Face washers are a rarity in many hotels, but fear not—I've discovered the wonders of dehydrated towel tablets. Just add water, and voila! Instant face towel. Say goodbye to lugging around damp, manky cloths from one destination to the next.

Packing Cells: Organization, Sorted
Packing cells are like a filing cabinet for your clothes, keeping everything neatly organized and wrinkle-free. Plus, they make rummaging through your suitcase feel like a treasure hunt.

Lightweight Undies: Nobody wants to deal with damp drawers when exploring new frontiers! recently discovered Paire lightweight travel undies. They are surprisingly comfortable and they weigh almost nothing. The clincher? You can dry them in 60 seconds with the hotel hairdryer. I love this!

Coffee Bags and Herbal Tea: Morning Rituals, Preserved
As a proud Melbournian, subpar nescafe in those weird little tubes just doesn't cut it for me. That's why I always pack my favourite coffee bags. Most hotels will provide a complimentary jug of milk, so that you don't have to wrangle the powdered milk (or is it cocaine?) ensuring I can enjoy my morning brew wherever I go. It’s a little taste of home. And for winding down in the evenings, herbal tea is a must-have, as it can be hard to find in some destinations.

Travel Journal: Memories Worth Writing Down
While smartphones may capture snapshots of our adventures, there's something special about putting pen to paper. My travel journal is my trusty companion, where I jot down memories, reflections, and the occasional doodle.

Sense of Adventure: The Ultimate Travel Companion
Last but certainly not least, I always pack my sense of adventure. Because no matter how well-prepared you are, it's the unexpected twists and turns that make every journey memorable. So here's to embracing the unknown and turning every trip into an unforgettable adventure!

Safe travels, fellow adventurers! 🌍✈️ Lisa x