Our recommended travel essentials

• Why it's great: Lightweight (2.3 oz), easy to use, and filters up to 1,000 liters of water. No need for pumping or chemicals—just fill and squeeze.

• Cost: c.£53 (affordable for long-term travel)

• Value for money: 9/10—Cheaper and more sustainable than buying bottled water.

Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Bottle – check it out here

Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental need while backpacking. In many countries, tap water isn't safe to drink, and bottled water can be expensive and environmentally harmful. A good water purifier ensures you stay hydrated while avoiding illnesses like traveller’s diarrhoea or E-coli contamination.

I've had experiences before (particularly when hiking or in more rural areas of South-East Asia) where this bottle has come in really handy (and much needed) due to the lack of safe drinking water nearby.

Make sure to pick one up - if not, you risk:

❌ Increased costs of buying bottled water
❌ Plastic waste accumulation
❌ Risk of dehydration or waterborne diseases

No brainer for: Southeast Asia, South America, Central America, Africa, and remote hiking/camping trips where tap water isn’t always safe.

Not all accommodations provide clean bedding, and temperatures can drop unexpectedly. A lightweight sleeping bag or silk travel sheet adds warmth, cleanliness, and comfort while keeping your pack light.

Make sure to pick one up - if not:

❌ Risk of bedbugs in low-budget accommodations

❌ Uncomfortable, cold nights

❌ No extra layer of protection in questionable bedding

No brainer for: Backpacking in hostels, trekking in the Himalayas, or sleeping in night buses or cheap guesthouses.

• Why it's great: Weighs just 1 lb, packs super small, and is warm enough for mild conditions. It also doubles as a blanket.

• Cost: c.£170 (mid-range but long-lasting)

• Value for money: 8/10—Expensive but durable and versatile.

Sea to Summit Traveller TrI Sleeping Bag – buy it here

• Why it's great: Adds warmth, fits into hostel beds, and is washable.

• Cost: £35

• Value for money: 9/10—Affordable, lightweight, and useful.

ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber Mummy Sleeping Bag Liner (budget option) – find it here

• Why it's great: Waterproof bag, ultra-light (6 oz), and contains bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, and medications for common ailments.

• Cost: c.£15

• Value for money: 10/10—Compact, affordable, and could save your trip.

Adventure Medical Kits – Check on Amazon

Backpacking often involves hiking, street food, and unpredictable situations. A well-stocked first aid kit helps treat cuts, infections, stomach issues, and minor injuries without needing immediate access to a pharmacy.

I always take a kit on my travels (even if this varies in size depending on destination!) Make sure to pick one up - if not, there is a real risk of the below:

❌ Infections from untreated cuts
❌ Severe discomfort from food poisoning or dehydration
❌ Lack of pain relief for headaches, muscle aches, or fever

No brainer for: Anywhere! Especially in remote areas, long hikes, or regions with different food hygiene standards.

Different countries have different plug types, and long travel days can drain your phone battery when you need it most. A universal adapter and a reliable power bank keep your devices charged for maps, translations, and emergency calls.

Make sure to pick one up in advance - if not:

❌ Dead phone = No maps, no Google Translate, no emergency contacts

❌ Can’t charge devices in countries with different plug types

❌ Expensive to buy last-minute adapters at airports

No brainer for: Everywhere, especially long backpacking trips or remote areas with limited electricity.

• Why it's great: Can charge a phone 5-6 times, fast-charging, and compact.

• Cost: £35

• Value for money: 10/10—A lifesaver on long bus rides and treks.

Anker PowerCore 20000mAh Power Bank – Check on Amazon

• Why it's great: Works in 150+ countries, has USB-C and USB-A ports, and includes a built-in fuse for safety.

• Cost: £25

• Value for money: 9/10—Covers almost all destinations

MOMAX Universal Travel Adapter – Check it out here

• Why it's great: Quick-dry, compact, and doesn’t get smelly like cotton towels.

• Cost: £15

• Value for money: 10/10—Essential for hostels, beaches, and hikes.

Rainleaf Microfiber Travel Towel – Get one here

Regular towels take forever to dry, get musty, and take up too much space. A microfiber towel is lightweight, fast-drying, and compact.

Make sure to pick one up - if not:

❌ Wet, bulky towels in your backpack
❌ Can’t dry off properly after showers or swimming
❌ Need to rent towels at hostels (£2-£5 per rental adds up!)

No brainer for: Beach destinations, camping, hostel stays, and adventure travel.

Pickpocketing is a huge risk in touristy areas. A money belt hides cash, cards, and your passport securely under clothing.

Make sure to pick one up - if not:

❌ Risk of pickpocketing in busy markets, buses, or metro systems
❌ Losing all cash/cards at once can leave you stranded
❌ Uncomfortable carrying valuables in regular pockets

No brainer for: Big cities with high pickpocket rates (e.g., Bangkok, Barcelona, Mexico City).

• Why it's great: Lightweight, discreet, and RFID-blocking for extra security.

• Cost: c.£15

• Value for money: 9/10—Prevents theft, which could ruin your trip.

Pacsafe Coversafe S25 Secret Pocket – Check on Amazon