Power bar

This one can be difficult at times, when I went to Australia, I brought one, plugged it in, popped a breaker, and it went unused the rest of my trip. I’ve even had it temporarily confiscated on a cruise ship because they didn’t want us to use them to avoid power surges, because no one would be happy if you caused a fuse to blow in the middle of the ocean. The one I brought had a surge protector and was an extension, which most cruise lines DO NOT ALLOW, but you can find some that are neither.

If you plan to stay on land and use the same voltage your whole trip, bringing a few extra plugs is never a bad idea.

External batteries/Extra camera batteries

I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how annoying it can be to have a camera or phone die in the middle of the day. Being from Canada, my phone has died because of the freezing temperatures and from overheating before. The only way to start I back up it to get it charged and inside to warm up or cool down.

Having external batteries to charge a device or an extra set for devices that take them are an integral part of my packing lists now, and at this point, I rarely go to work without them.

Camera connection to phones

This is one I recently found out about myself.

I knew I could connect my GoPro to a phone, but I had no idea I could do the same with my Canon camera!

Using the Canon Camera Connect app, I can wirelessly connect my camera and take photos of myself and know what they’ll look like as I shoot them! This is great for when you’re on your own and want pictures of yourself, but no one is around to take them or if you want to have everyone in frame and take the photo and not have to run into the shot. I’ve heard many other companies have this feature too, but I would love to see it extended to video too.

Cooler bags

Yes, I know. Most of us forget these when we leave our house to get groceries, so why would I recommend them to travel with?

Well for one they’re usually pretty sturdy, and when you travel somewhere and plan to buy food to cook yourself, they can be helpful to keep food hot or cold. You can also put all your food in them and store them in fridges at hostels and not worry about your stuff being stolen.

They’re also a big help because more and more places are starting to forgo handing out bags as it is, so getting into the habit of bringing your own is just good sense overall.

Day trips

As someone who is currently under 25 and only got their licence a year and a half ago, day tours have been such a godsend for me.

Many car rental companies won’t rent to anyone under 25 or will charge extra fees if they do. I also love being able to sit back and talk to others, enjoy the scenery, or even nap if it’s a long enough trip.

So many local companies are fantastic and offer such great value and experience for the price of the trip.

Google Maps offline

No matter where I am in the world, I use google maps. At home in Montreal, we have Wi-Fi everywhere. Every store, mall, restaurant and even grocery stores have Wi-Fi, so I rarely need maps offline.

When I travel, I like to download them so I can map out routes in advance and so I can mark down places I want to see while in a given city.

Also finding a local tourist office is a great place to get recommendations for food, tours, museums and little know places that may not be popular on google but could make your trip way more memorable.

Bring pens!

This one can be so important, Pens can be super helpful when you’re travelling through airports or train stations, where they may make you fill out forms or documents. You can also use them to mark maps or leave notes or to mark something as yours. Travelling with a pen or two is usually a good idea.

Use glasses cases

So, I need glasses. I can’t see long distances or read far away signs without them, but I bring my case to store them in, so they don’t get crushed. In the times I don’t use them, I use them as storage for smaller, sometimes fragile items. I’ve found you can store a whole bunch of stuff in them if the case is large enough.

Bring mini liquids or solid versions

Since I now try to travel carry on only, I try to buy as few liquids as possible. This means having solid toothpaste, shampoos, conditioners, mouth wash, body wash and makeup.

I’ve found that lush has excellent options and a few local shops have some good ones too, like the local lavender farm that sells bar soap.

This also includes solid or powdered soaps to wash clothes with where possible. I’m still looking for a brand that is sold in Canada that is eco-friendly and is safe for all washers if you have any suggestions!

Travel with a reusable mug or bottle

Did you know that almost every major coffee place gives a discount if you bring your own cup? It varies from brand to brand, but it’s true!

Not only can you get a discount but you’re helping the planet too!

You also don’t have to wait for water or coffee all the time on long flights if you fill your bottle or mug after you pass through security!

Sanitizer wipes

If you were not already aware, everything is dirty. The video of Naomi Campbell cleaning with gloves and a mask is what I strive for because I ALWAYS end up sick when I travel.

Other than wiping away the bubonic plague the wipes are great for after eating if there are no sinks around.