Amy Reynolds Packing for any trip, whether domestic or international, is always a feat. Online packing lists aren’t always comprehensive, and there are a handful of very underrated travel essentials that are often missed. Here are my top three:
Universal adaptor
Okay, you can usually find a travel adaptor on most packing lists. But investing in a universal adaptor allows you to use the same gadget on every trip, rather than buying several different types of plugs to suit individual destinations. I would recommend searching for one which also has USB charging capabilities, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once for ultimate convenience.
Travel-friendly alternatives to traditional products
There are many things that simply can’t go on hold when you go away. Unfortunately, washing is one of them. While you might get away with packing an outfit a day for short-term travel, longer trips typically involve some time at the laundromat. Rather than packing pods or liquid detergent and risking leaks in your luggage, you should explore travel-friendly innovations like detergent sheets which are designed to be portable yet effective.
Another example is haircare: rather than bringing bottles of shampoo and conditioner which can easily crack when your bag is inevitably thrown on the airport tarmac, the bar forms of these products take less space and weight, and are much more convenient.
Shawls
In my opinion, shawls are one of the most versatile garments for travel. I’ve used mine in the following ways:
- Warmth: shawls are perfect for adding an extra layer when you need it most, and can be tied in a variety of ways, including as a scarf or headscarf, or can even simply be used as a light blanket.
- DIY leg hammock: from planes to trains, public transport has never been known for comfort. However, a simple shawl can transform your travel experience – by laying your shawl on a meal tray table, stowing it, and then tying the ends of the material together, you can create a makeshift rest which elevates your legs in transit.
- Coverup: international destinations may have different expectations for modesty, and a shawl is the perfect way to adapt to these cultural requirements. Its size and weight make it an incredibly convenient solution: your shawl which can be folded in a small daypack while you explore a new place, easily accessible if you decide to visit a church, temple, or other institution requiring more modest attire.