Whether you’re off on a weekend escape or planning a round-the-world adventure, preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free journey. But with so many tools, tips, and trends out there, what do you really need? We’re not going to waste your time talking, so we have bullet points that you can save to your notes app. Get your information, pack your bags, and go enjoy the world!

What are the essential items everyone should pack?

Let’s start with the basics — the things you should never leave home without. These are your travel non-negotiables:

• Passport (+ copies, both digital and physical)
  • In many countries, you are expected to also carry physical photo ID with you at all times. The US, Spain, Italy, Japan and Türkiye are just a few of these. But saving a photo copy of your passport on your phone is also a good backup (and has saved some Stasher team members on more than one occasion!)
• Visa (if needed)
• Travel insurance details
• Chargers (phone, laptop, watch, e-reader)
• Universal adapter
• Reusable water bottle
• Reusable shopping bag (a lifesaver for snacks or spontaneous souvenirs)

These might sound obvious, but even seasoned travellers can forget the small stuff. A good tip? Keep these essentials in a separate pouch or packing cube in your hand luggage, so they’re easy to grab at the airport or on a long train journey.

Are packing cubes and compression bags worth it?

In short — absolutely. Packing cubes help you keep your suitcase organised and make unpacking at your accommodation a breeze. You can group items by category (e.g. tops, underwear, electronics) or by day. It also makes repacking so much easier if you’re city-hopping. As a long-term traveller myself who is extremely well acquainted with my packing cubes, I find this very helpful for two additional reasons:
– Cube seems too easy to close: I’ve forgotten something that is hanging to dry, or in a drawer.
– Cube seems too difficult to close: I need to ease off on buying new T-shirts!

Compression bags are especially useful for bulkier clothes like jackets or jumpers, letting you fit more in without cramming your case shut. If you’re using smart luggage (hello, USB-charging suitcases or GPS-enabled bags), you’ll love how efficiently these tools let you pack.

What travel apps work offline?

Losing Wi-Fi doesn’t mean losing your way. These offline apps have your back:

• Google Maps – Download areas in advance for offline navigation
• Duolingo – Brush up on the basics of local lingo, even without a signal
• XE Currency – Convert currencies without using data
• Trail Wallet – Budgeting on the go? Track expenses with or without roaming

Pro tip: Put your phone in airplane mode and rely on these to save battery when you’re out and about all day.

What are digital wallets and insurance platforms I should use?

Carrying cash is becoming a thing of the past. Services like Revolut, Monzo, and Wise let you spend in multiple currencies with low fees and offer virtual cards for extra security. Many also come with in-app budgeting tools and freeze functions if your card goes missing.

For travel insurance, platforms like SafetyWing, World Nomads, or Allianz Travel offer solid coverage, whether you’re going for two weeks or six months. Look for policies that include emergency medical care and trip cancellation — you’ll thank yourself later.

How do I make long-haul flights more bearable?

A few upgrades to your carry-on kit can go a long way:

• Noise-cancelling headphones – A lifesaver on loud planes or trains
• Sleep mask & neck pillow – Help you drift off when your seat neighbour won’t close the window blind
• Lip balm & moisturiser – Cabin air is a moisture thief
• Hydration tablets – Combat the dehydrating effects of flying

Packing these into a small pouch means you’ve got a DIY travel spa ready at 35,000 feet.

Is my wallet secure? And how do I track my bags?

Modern travel calls for modern safety measures. RFID-blocking wallets and passport holders help protect your cards from digital pickpockets. They’re thin, affordable, and a small step for major peace of mind.

Worried about losing your luggage? Attach a Tile or Apple AirTag to your suitcase so you can locate it using your phone — whether it’s stuck at security or went on an unexpected solo trip to Stockholm.

Travelling with kids? Here’s what not to forget

Travelling with children? Preparation is your best friend. A few must-haves:

• Plenty of snacks (more than you think you’ll need)
• Downloaded shows or movies on a tablet
• Noise-cancelling headphones for kids (volume limited)
• Wet wipes and hand sanitiser
• Lightweight games, colouring kits, or sticker books
• A compact first-aid kit (plasters, fever meds, etc.)
• Portable booster seat or harness (check local car seat rules)

Pro tip: Let them help pack their own mini bag — it gives them a sense of responsibility and keeps them entertained.

Travelling with older family members? Here’s what helps

If you’re travelling with or are an older adventurer yourself, these items can add comfort and safety:

• Pill organiser with compartments by day or time
• Walking stick seat combo or foldable walking aid
• Easy-to-use emergency contact device (some smartwatches offer this now)
• Travel insurance with good medical coverage
• Simple phone or tablet with large icons and screen reader accessibility
• Medication list stored digitally and in paper form, just in case

And of course, make sure any accommodation is accessible — call ahead if unsure.

What are the newest travel tech tools to try?

Here’s where things get exciting — the latest innovations making travel smoother and smarter:

• AI-powered travel planners like Roam Around or WayAway help build custom itineraries in seconds
• Pocket translators like Pocketalk or ili let you speak and understand over 70 languages in real-time
• eSIMs (offered by Airalo or Holafly) mean you can get connected without swapping physical SIM cards — just scan and go
• Smart water bottles. Definitely a luxury if you find that you have copious extra packing space, these help you track your hydration, or UV-sanitise your drink

Some of these tools can feel a bit sci-fi, but once you try them, there’s no going back.

Travel light, travel smart

Packing well doesn’t mean packing more. It means bringing only what you need and using the right tools to keep things running smoothly. Whether it’s offline apps, RFID wallets, or the latest AI trip planner, each item on this list is designed to help you enjoy the journey — not just the destination. Do as the Stasher team does, check your phone, your passport and your wallet before leaving any accommodation or airport. Anything else can be replaced. Just bring an open mind and an excitement for the experiences ahead of you!

Need to drop your bags while exploring? Book secure luggage storage with Stasher and make the most of your trip, hands-free.