When you think of travel essentials, most people tend to think of toothbrushes, underwear, and socks. Right? And for good reason! If you forget to bring those things, you could have a pretty big issue. Although those things are important, we tend not to forget them. That’s why I’m talking about the essentials that you can live without, but are easier to forget. These are the things we get the most disappointed about forgetting. So here we have my list of “non-essential” travel essentials.
Camera
Because this all started with me forgetting my GoPro on my Florida trip, I figured I’d start with cameras. Most of us now have cameras on our phones, which is great, until it dies. There’s also the chance that a normal phone can’t capture what you want, for example, if there’s a risk of it getting wet. For this reason, bringing an extra camera is super important. I like to bring two cameras. My GoPro and my Polaroid camera come with me on almost every trip. I don’t always use both of them, but when I can, I end up capturing some pretty awesome memories.
Here’s a link to my GoPro on Amazon: GoPro HERO5
(ps. I do not get commission or benefits from you buying any of the products listed on this page. I simply own these things and love using them and want to share with you!)
Book
I can’t speak for everyone, but I’m assuming if you’re taking the time to read this, you enjoy reading. When I say to take a book, I don’t mean on a tablet or smartphone. For the same reason that having a separate camera is good, bringing a physical book is just as important. If I’m going on a trip (especially one with a lot of travel time) I’m always sure to have a book on board.
Water Bottle
Talk about saving money, time, and the planet! Yes, you can always pick up plastic water bottles wherever you’re going, especially if it’s a big city or town. However, bringing your water bottle will help you save time and money when it comes to buying throw-away bottles the entire trip. There’s a good chance you’ll come across free refill stations or water fountains, and most restaurants will give you water for free. Having your bottle with you will also remind you to keep hydrating. Not to mention, you won’t have to use a ton of plastic!
Guide Books, National Park Passports, Travel Journals
This one is more specifically for outdoor destinations, but can apply to anywhere! Look into guidebooks and maps that apply to wherever you’re going. This will help you plan your trip, and get around easier once you get there. The National Park Passport is a small book in which you can get stamps at the national parks you visit. You can buy the book at the Visitor Center of mosts parks, and your stamps (known as “cancellations”) are free of charge after purchasing the book! Along the same lines, if you like to write I highly suggest bringing a journal. Your memories will never be as fresh as they are while you’re on your trip, so record what you experience to relive it later!
Check out the national park passport here: Passport To Your National Parks
My favorite national park guidebook: National Geographic Guide to National Parks Eighth Edition
What “non-essentials” do you make sure to bring when you travel? Let me know in the comments!
Kati's Journeys 