This is a list of the essential items that permanently stay in my travel bag that I never leave home without.
Watch—I have been a fan of the Garmin Series of watches for a number of years. I currently use the Garmin Fexix 7 Pro, which gives me a ton of information and maps in a pinch. It helps me with bragging rights about how many steps I have walked on each adventure.
Garmin InReach Mini 2 – I like to track our routes and like to be in contact when I travel to more exotic places. Originally purchases for a wildness fishing trip I continue to use it for regular travel.
Miscellaneous
Small Flashlight – I am a fan of the GearLight M3 Mini LED Flashlight, which I bought for the entire family before our trip to Jordan due to expected power outages and walking around in the cave areas of Petra.
Whistle—A small safety whistle has many uses. This one is compact and has a lanyard you can wear around your neck. I always have this in my shorts pocket or on the nightstand, especially in a higher-floor room.
Water Bottle with Filter—After my bout with a local parasite in Guatemala, I always bring a water bottle with a filter. I like the LifeStraw Go Series bottle. This is a durable bottle with the same LifeStraw filter system that I used to bring as one of my miscellaneous items.
Plug Adapters
I have a big plastic box of these that I have bought and collected over the years. I went through the phases of a big block that I could pick and choose the correct one to individual versions. The best ones I have are the Swiss Gear version I have only found in Stockholm airport.
Europe Type C – Germany, France Tessen International Adapter
Europe Type E – Spain, Greece, Germany Tessen International Adapter this is the one we refer to as the “big round” 2 prong adapter.
First Aid
Blister Protection—I like these KT Tape Strips. They are significantly better than band-aids for hotspots when you are walking on tours. They typically last a few days when applied. You can tear off a few and put them into your kit.
Celox Blood Clotting Granuals – These are great for minor cuts and essential if you use blood thinners.
Nice to Have
Garmin InReach Mini 2 – I like to track our routes and like to be in contact when I travel to more exotic places. Originally purchases for a wildness fishing trip I continue to use it for regular travel.