Travel Gear Essentials: What's Worth the Space (and What Isn't)

Packing well isn't about bringing it all -- and you don't need every new gadget.

Gear That Pulls Its Weight

Travel gear is a minefield of gimmicks and "must-haves" you'll never use. It seems that at least twice a week I get an email or run across an article detailing all the gadgets I need to buy in order to make my next trip extra-special. Thankfully, after years of traveling all over the globe, we have learned a few things -- here's what makes the cut for us.

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The Short List

• Universal adapter with USB

• Compact power bank (at least 10,000 mAh)

• Refillable water bottle (even better if it's collapsible)

• Noise-cancelling headphones

• Travel backpack that meets carry-on restrictions

• Cross-body/sling bag

• Compression packing cubes

• Packable microfiber towel

• Matador FlatPak soap case

• Compression socks

• Buff merino wool head wrap

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What to Skip

• Heavy, hard-shell suitcases (see our Carry-On Only packing list)

• Gimmicky, single-purpose gadgets (travel clotheslines, inflatable hangers, etc.)

• Travel pillows that don't compress well

• Specialized travel gear (travel scales, money belts, etc.)

• Hair dryer -- your high-powered one won't work in most international destinations anyway

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Future-Proofing Your Kit

With more and more destinations starting to use digital visas, mobile park permits, and eSIM cards, you should make sure that your phone has dual SIM/eSIM capability, and that you have plenty of secure cloud storage for documents.