Travel essentials to keep you savvy, smart and safe

There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of jetting – or sailing – off on a new adventure. When it comes to organising your holiday, there are lots of things to think about and it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. Make things as simple as possible by keeping these travel essentials in mind and you’ll be enjoying your relaxing getaway in no time!

Photocopies of passport and credit cards

Before you leave, make photocopies of your passport and other valuables like credit cards and travel cards. This way if anything happens to them while you’re away, you’ll have all your details on-hand to give to the authorities or your bank. Take a copy of each with you and lock them in your hotel safe if you have one or store them in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to leave a copy with friends or family so you’ve got all your bases covered.

Travel insurance

No matter where you’re going, travel insurance is important. You can book insurance through your travel agent or jump online and find the one that best suits you. There are a number of trustworthy companies that sell insurance online and you can organise it in under 10 minutes – it’s also usually cheaper than booking through a travel agent, too. If you’re unsure about which company is best for you, call your travel agent and ask for their advice.

Spare reading glasses

Glasses are the kind of thing that always seem to go missing just when you need them most, so it’s always a good idea to take a spare pair with you when you’re travelling overseas. Pick up an inexpensive pair at the chemist and store them in your luggage in case you lose the ones you already have.

Adaptors

A good adaptor goes a long way and ensures you’ll be able to charge your phone every night and plug in the hairdryer! Pack a couple of adaptors and consider whether or not you need a voltage converter, too. Some electrical items only work on a 110-volt electrical current so you might need to pack both. If you’re travelling through a number of countries make sure you have all the correct adaptors for each destination.

Money pouch

A money pouch is the safest and most secure way to store your cash, credit cards and passport while you’re travelling. They fit securely around your waist and are hidden from view under your clothes, meaning it’s almost impossible for thieves or pickpockets to steal from you. Most money pouches come with a number of pockets and compartments so you can organise your belongings into seperate areas. Try to keep your passport, cash and credit cards in seperate pockets so you’re not searching for them for too long and drawing attention to yourself.

Prescriptions

Before you leave, have your doctor fill out extra prescriptions for you in case of an emergency. If you lose or run out of your medication you’ll be able to get a new dose in most countries by presenting your prescription at a pharmacy.

Foldable tote bag

Take a spare canvas tote bag to pull out whenever you need it. It’s great to have on hand if you’re doing any shopping or have extra items to carry around during the day like water bottles and rain jackets.

Compact rain jacket

Speaking of rain jackets… take one! Especially if you’re heading somewhere in Asia where rain can start bucketing down with almost no warning. Even if you’re visiting Europe or America, temperamental weather means there’s always the chance of an unexpected shower. Rain jackets are also much more compact and easier to carry around than bulky umbrellas.

Comfortable walking shoes

You can never go past a good pair of walking shoes when you’re travelling. As tourists, most of us spend hours walking the streets to explore new cities and you’ll be thankful at the end of the day you had a comfy pair of shoes to roam around in. If you’re buying a new pair specifically for your holiday make sure you take a week or two to break them in before you leave. That way they’ll be soft and molded to your foot and you’ll be able to enjoy your days pounding the pavement and discovering the city.

What are travel essentials do you pack for your holidays? Do you have anything to add to the list?