New Travelers: Top 10 Tools You Shouldn’t Leave Home Without!

Ah, the joys of being a new traveler! The world is your oyster, bursting with new sights, sounds, snacks you’ll likely mispronounce, and even improvised basic huts like the one in the Philippines, taken during my seven years backpacking around the world.

But before you leap into your grand adventure, let’s talk about packing smart. No, I’m not about to tell you to Marie Kondo your life into a carry-on (though props if you can.. read later in the article what I did!).

I’m here to help you assemble a toolkit that’ll make you feel like a seasoned globetrotter, even if you’re Googling “How to navigate an airport” as I did in Abu Dhabi (yep, I’m a disaster sometimes, but I have learned!).

Here are the top 10 tools every new traveler needs—because nothing kills the vibe faster than realizing you forgot something important (like your passport or dignity). Let’s dive in!

Your Own Pillowcase

Yep, you’ve read it correctly. Your own pillowcase. This may sound weird at first, but hear me out. Airplane headrests, hostel cushions, night trains… do you really want your face pressed against their questionable cleanliness and strangers’ feet odors?

Bringing your own pillowcase gives you a slice of home wherever you rest your weary head. I know, there is no pillow. No worries! Use some soft clothes to fill it up to have a lovely sleep!

Bonus points: if it smells like your laundry detergent, it’s a soothing reminder of home that might keep the homesickness at bay (if you have any. I forgot I had a proper home, after three days, the world was already my home!

Pro Tip: Bright colors or patterns make it easier to spot and less likely to accidentally leave behind. You don’t want to say goodbye to your makeshift sense of security!

Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Hydration is key, my friends. And let’s face it: buying bottled water constantly is a waste of money and plastic. I used the stainless steel water bottle by Owala, and it was super convenient!

This beauty keeps your drinks cold for hours, has a built-in straw for sipping convenience, and looks snazzy enough to double as an accessory.

Whether you’re trekking through a bustling city or lounging on a tropical beach, it’ll keep dehydration at bay.

Why Owala? Because not all water bottles are created equal. This one is leak-proof and durable, meaning it can survive being dropped, tossed, or even used as an improvised weapon (just kidding… sort of).

A Good Backpack

Notice I didn’t say “a cute backpack” or “a big backpack.” Forget your overstuffed purse or wheely suitcase—you need a proper, sturdy backpack.

Before my seven-year epic trip around the world, it took me months to choose the right one, and boy, did it make a difference when you carry your whole world with you!

This still means that you have to pack light. Please don’t make my packing mistakes!

A good one is lightweight, has multiple compartments, and—most importantly—is comfortable to wear for hours – meaning, the weight needs to go to your hips, NOT your shoulders.

Think of it as your mobile HQ, carrying everything from snacks to spare socks to secret snacks 😉

Pro Tip: Look for one with anti-theft zippers or a hidden pocket for your valuables. Nobody wants to be “that tourist” clutching their bag like it contains the crown jewels.

And nobody wants to be like me, robbed of my cash in my sleep during a night bus ride in Thailand. You live, you learn… you write articles to avoid people making your mistakes 🙂

An Open Mind

No, you can’t buy this one on Amazon, but it’s probably the most important thing on this list. Traveling is all about stepping outside your comfort zone—and that means embracing the unexpected.

“The Comfort zone”: I heard this word so often that it became a cliche. It’s the usual word anyone would throw at you without meaning, only to feel cool or wise. And, sometimes, it is like that.

You realize how powerful these words are when you truly let go… when you are “In the process,” or even better after you return home. Only then will you realize that, indeed, “getting out of your comfort zone” can change you forever.

This is one of my first posts after returning home briefly eight months after my epic trip. It says a lot already. Imagine how I have changed after seven years of adventure and an open mind!

Your train might get delayed, the menu might not be in English, or your “quaint little inn” might turn out to be a shed with Wi-Fi. Roll with it! You will learn to go with the flow, see the world with new eyes, embrace the cultural differences.

Why It Matters: Being adaptable makes every experience richer, whether it’s a mishap-turned-adventure or a cultural exchange you didn’t see coming. Not to mention the unique, special friends you’ll gain for the rest of your life. The ones who truly get you and who you’ve become.

A Rough Itinerary

Note the word rough. You don’t need to schedule your trip down to the nanosecond, but having a general game plan helps.

Research the must-see spots, but leave room for spontaneous detours—you never know when you’ll stumble upon a hidden gem (or an unplanned nap or meal).

Adventures and even misadventures, to me at least, were at the core of why my trip was epic. Embracing the unknowing is the only way to truly change for the better during an experience around the world.

Pro Tip: Use apps like Google Maps to save locations ahead of time. That way, you’ll still know how to find that “world-famous gelato” place when you’re roaming without Wi-Fi.

A Checklist

Who me? The spontaneous adventurer is recommending a Checklist?! 🙂

If you, like me, are prone to forgetting things (and who isn’t, even just a little bit?), a checklist is your best friend. Don’t wait to throw whatever crosses your path on the backpack “just in case.” Be systematic, practical, and logical about it.

Ask yourself: “Do I REALLY need this item, is it TRULY necessary do have an emergency dental kit? (yep, I even bought that before my trip. Don’t ask!)

Write down everything you need—from your passport to your phone charger—and tick items off as you pack. It’s simple but effective. It might even save you a trip if you do it properly.

Bonus: There’s something deeply satisfying about crossing things off a list. Trust me, it’s almost as rewarding as actually going on the trip.

Don’t forget to double-check that the ticked-out items are in your backpack and not still sitting on your bed (I speak for experience once again!).

A Power Bank

Nothing screams “rookie traveler” like your phone dying halfway through an epic day. Whether you’re navigating, taking photos, or just scrolling through memes during downtime, a dead battery is a no-go.

A power bank ensures you’re always juiced up and ready to roll. It’s a must-have, even if you are just on vacation.

Pro Tip: Invest in a high-capacity power bank, possibly a solar one. The bigger the better (and by “bigger,” I mean mAh—not size).

A Mini Version of Your Hobby

Wait, wasn’t traveling my hobby already? Yes, it is, but it doesn’t mean leaving your OTHER passions behind.

Whether it’s a deck of cards, a travel-sized sketchbook, or a mini knitting kit, bringing a piece of your favorite hobby adds a personal touch to your journey.

Plus, it’s a great way to unwind after a hectic day of exploring and diversify your day. I admit I didn’t follow my advice, so I am passing it on to you. I’ve always loved drawing but didn’t indulge in any of that for years. Now, I regret losing some of the skills I had before the trip.

Why It’s Worth It: Hobbies can spark conversations with fellow travelers. Who knows? You might bond over your shared love of doodling or Uno.

Good Shoes

If your feet aren’t happy, you’re not happy. Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets or hiking up a mountain, a pair of comfortable, durable shoes is non-negotiable. Blisters? They’re not cute and definitely not fun.

And you don’t even have to go to the ends of the world to understand it. Last summer, I had the (not-so-brilliant) idea to try a new pair of trainers for my daily run.

The result? I had to call home to be picked up as a blister quickly formed and broke. I should have known better…Well done, Clelia! 🙂

Pro Tip: Break in your shoes before the trip. Nothing ruins day one faster than realizing your new kicks are secretly instruments of torture.

One Fancy Dress (or Outfit)

You might think, “I’m just backpacking—why would I need fancy clothes?” But trust me, there will come a moment when you wish you’d packed something other than cargo pants.

A nice outfit lets you blend in at a swanky restaurant or look great for an impromptu photo shoot. You won’t look like a homeless person if you meet the love of your life on the road, won’t you?

Just kidding, I did meet my future husband wearing horrible cargo pants and a worn-out old t-shirt. but still, follow my advice for the rest. Love is blind, we all know that 😀

Pro Tip: Choose something lightweight and wrinkle-resistant. Bonus if it’s versatile enough to dress up or down.

BONUS TIP: A Very Good Insurance Policy!

You’ll thank me for this one!

If there’s one thing that has saved me more times than I can count, it’s a solid travel insurance policy.

Imagine this: you’re camping in Africa, admiring your first sight of a lion and realize that not only have you caught Malaria, but the nearest hospital looks like a hut with the local doctor running it alone—or worse, there is no hospital.

Or picture waking up to find your backpack gone, including your passport and wallet.

Good insurance turns those nightmares into manageable inconveniences, even staying on the phone with you, crying, and trying to console you twenty-four hours, seven days out of seven.

My insurance (World Nomads, bless them forever!) has covered me in my worst emergencies, ensured I wasn’t stuck in no-hospital zones, and even reimbursed me more than 5000 euros when my belongings were stolen (thanks, pickpockets in Thailand!).

Sure, it feels like a “just in case” and unnecessary expense at first, but when you truly need it, it’s the smartest investment you’ve made.

Here’s the thing: travel insurance isn’t just for disasters. It’s peace of mind that lets you focus on enjoying your trip, knowing you’re covered for everything from medical mishaps to canceled flights.

You’ll thank yourself—and me—for this one. I told you 🙂

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your ultimate travel starter kit. Each of these items is small enough to pack but mighty in its ability to save the day.

So, whether you’re venturing out for the first time or the hundredth, these tools will help you tackle any travel hiccup with confidence and style, not like I did!

But remember: travel isn’t about perfection; it’s about embracing adventure. Pack smart, keep an open mind, and don’t forget to take way too many pictures. Happy exploring!