Our Top 5 Travel Essentials for Every Adventure

After years of traveling across six continents, we’ve learned a thing or two about what you actually need on the road. While everyone’s travel style is different, these five essentials have never let us down, whether we’re hiking through the Himalayas or exploring bustling city streets.

1. A Reliable Backpack

Our Pick: Osprey Farpoint 40L

Your backpack is your home on the road, so choose wisely. We’ve tried dozens of packs, and the Osprey Farpoint 40L consistently comes out on top. Here’s why:

  • Perfect size for carry-on requirements on most airlines
  • Comfortable even when fully loaded
  • Durable construction that lasts for years
  • Smart organization with multiple compartments
  • Lifetime warranty for peace of mind

Pro tip: Pack cubes are a game-changer for organization. We use Eagle Creek compression cubes to maximize space.

2. Universal Power Adapter

Our Pick: Anker PowerPort 4

In today’s connected world, keeping your devices charged is crucial. We’ve been through countless adapters, and the Anker PowerPort 4 is our go-to choice:

  • Works in 150+ countries with multiple plug types
  • USB-C and USB-A ports for all your devices
  • Fast charging capabilities
  • Compact design that doesn’t take up much space
  • Reliable build quality that won’t break after a few uses

Pro tip: Always carry a portable power bank as backup. We recommend the Anker PowerCore 10000.

3. Quality Camera (Your Phone Counts!)

Our Pick: iPhone 15 Pro / Google Pixel 8 Pro

You don’t need a professional camera to capture amazing travel photos. Modern smartphones are incredibly capable:

  • Excellent image quality in most lighting conditions
  • Portable and always with you
  • Easy sharing to social media
  • Video capabilities for vlogs and memories
  • Built-in editing apps for quick adjustments

Pro tip: Learn basic photography principles. Composition and lighting matter more than megapixels.

4. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Our Pick: Allbirds Tree Runners / Merrell Moab 3

You’ll be walking more than you think. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable:

  • Supportive for long days of exploration
  • Versatile for different terrains and weather
  • Breathable to keep your feet comfortable
  • Durable to handle the wear and tear of travel
  • Easy to clean for when things get messy

Pro tip: Break in new shoes before your trip. Blisters can ruin an otherwise perfect adventure.

5. Travel Insurance

Our Pick: World Nomads / SafetyWing

This might not be as exciting as a new camera, but it’s absolutely essential:

  • Medical coverage for unexpected illnesses or injuries
  • Trip cancellation protection
  • Lost luggage reimbursement
  • Emergency evacuation if needed
  • 24/7 support when things go wrong

Pro tip: Read the fine print. Make sure your policy covers adventure activities if you plan to do any.

Bonus: The Intangibles

While gear is important, the most essential travel items can’t be bought:

  • Curiosity - Approach every destination with an open mind
  • Patience - Things will go wrong, and that’s part of the adventure
  • Respect - For local cultures, customs, and the environment
  • Flexibility - Plans change, and that’s often when the best memories are made
  • Courage - To step outside your comfort zone and try new things

Our Packing Philosophy

We’ve learned that less is often more when it comes to travel gear:

  1. Pack for your first week - You can buy or wash what you need
  2. Choose versatile items - One item that serves multiple purposes
  3. Quality over quantity - Better to have fewer, better items
  4. Test before you go - Try out new gear at home first
  5. Leave room for souvenirs - You’ll want to bring things home

What We’ve Learned

After years of trial and error, we’ve discovered that the best travel gear is:

  • Reliable - It works when you need it most
  • Versatile - Adapts to different situations
  • Durable - Lasts through multiple trips
  • Lightweight - Doesn’t weigh you down
  • Essential - You actually use it regularly

Your Turn

What are your travel essentials? We’d love to hear what gear you can’t travel without. Share your favorites in the comments below or tag us on social media with your travel setup.

Remember: The best gear is the gear that works for you. Don’t get caught up in having the latest and greatest – focus on what helps you have the best possible travel experience.


Follow our gear reviews and travel tips on Instagram and YouTube.

Comments