15 Things I Never Travel Without (That Actually Make Life Easier)

After travelling to over 40 countries – sometimes solo, sometimes with my daughters, and sometimes in creator trips – I’ve learned that packing well truly changes the experience. And when it comes to travel essentials for women, there are a few things that simplify packing, keep you healthy on the road, and make every journey feel smoother and more enjoyable.

These aren’t your typical “travel pillow and eye mask” recommendations. These are the items I swear by — the things that have saved me during long-haul flights, tropical humidity, unexpected travel hiccups, and navigating new places as a woman travelling alone or with kids.

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you.

---

1. Optibac Probiotics

My number one non-negotiable. Travel can play havoc on your stomach — new foods, jet lag, different water — and these keep everything balanced. I start taking them a week before my trip and continue throughout. A must for anyone heading to Asia or South America. The last thing I want as a woman travelling alone with my children if for me to end up sick, so I take every precaution possible.
👉 Shop Optibac Probiotics on Amazon

---

2. High-Capacity Power Bank

When you’re filming, navigating, and WhatsApping all day, battery anxiety is real. A reliable, fast-charging power bank has saved me countless times — especially on long travel days or excursions.
👉 Shop Power Bank on Amazon

---

3. Universal Travel Adapter

This one’s a classic for a reason. Look for one with multiple USB ports and a Type-C slot so you can charge everything at once. I love the ones that work in 150+ countries — truly a one-and-done purchase.
👉 Shop Universal Adapter on Amazon

---

4. GigSky eSIM

Forget hunting for SIM cards in arrivals halls. With an eSIM, I can land anywhere, activate data instantly, and stay connected. GigSky is affordable, easy to set up, and has saved me when I’ve needed to upload content or get directions on the spot.
👉 Explore GigSky eSIM

---

5. Portable Handheld or Neck Fan

If you’ve ever filmed in the Maldives, walked through the markets in Sri Lanka, or explored Marrakech mid-day, you know. This little gadget is a lifesaver for keeping cool — especially with kids in tow.
👉 Shop Travel Fan on Amazon

---

6. Collapsible Water Bottle

Lightweight, leak-proof, and easy to refill after security — I never travel without one. It’s sustainable, saves money, and means no more buying endless plastic bottles abroad.
👉 Shop Collapsible Bottle on Amazon

---

7. Packing Cubes

I used to roll my clothes and hope for the best. Now I can’t imagine travelling without packing cubes. They make everything organised and mean I can unpack in minutes when I arrive. Perfect if you’re hopping between islands or cities.
👉 Shop Packing Cubes on Amazon

---

8. Mini First-Aid Kit + Rehydration Sachets

You don’t think you need it… until you do. I always keep a small pouch with plasters, painkillers, and rehydration sachets. Trust me, they’re worth their weight in gold if you ever get food poisoning or heat exhaustion.
👉 Shop Travel First-Aid Kit on Amazon

---

9. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

For flights, hotel rooms, or just zoning out on buses. They make even budget flights feel like business class. Bonus points if they’re compact and wireless.
👉 Shop Noise-Cancelling Headphones on Amazon

---

10. Kindle or iPad Mini

Perfect for long flights or lazy beach days. I load mine up with books and travel guides before every trip — it’s light, compact, and doubles as my journal when I need to write on the go.
👉 Shop Kindle on Amazon

---

11. Silk Sleep Mask + Pillow Spray

Because travel can be chaotic, and rest matters. My soft-life essentials: a silk eye mask and a mini pillow spray that smells like home. A small way to make any hotel room feel luxurious.
👉 Shop Sleep Mask on Amazon

---

12. Lightweight Tripod or Phone Stand

For creators, solo travellers, or anyone who wants photos that don’t rely on asking strangers. I use mine for filming content, self-timer shots, and family photos.
👉 Shop Phone Tripod on Amazon

---

13. Dry Bag or Waterproof Pouch

If you’re heading anywhere near water — from island-hopping to paddleboarding — this is non-negotiable. It keeps your phone and valuables safe during snorkel trips or beach days.
👉 Shop Waterproof Dry Bag on Amazon

---

14. Foldable Tote or Day Bag

For beach trips, markets, or last-minute airport snacks. I love the ones that fold into tiny pouches — they take up no space but are endlessly useful.
👉 Shop Foldable Tote on Amazon

---

15. Travel Insurance with SafetyWing

Unpredictable things happen when you travel — flights get cancelled, luggage gets lost, people get sick. SafetyWing has been my go-to because it’s affordable, flexible, and made specifically for travellers and creators.
👉 Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

---

Bonus: My Travel Journal

I jot down everything — the best food spots, people I meet, thoughts I don’t want to forget. It keeps me grounded and reminds me why I travel: for growth, for connection, for the stories I’ll tell one day.

---

✨ Final Thoughts

You don’t need to overpack to be prepared. A few well-chosen essentials can completely change how stress-free and enjoyable your travels feel.

You can shop all my favourites here:
👉 Shop My Travel Essentials on Amazon

And if you’re planning your next adventure, don’t forget: travel’s always smoother when you’re prepared — but it’s the moments you can’t plan that you’ll remember most.

---