For seasoned adventurers and newbies alike, there’s nothing like getting the bug and doing something that makes you feel alive. But when the urge strikes, what should you remember to throw in your bag? Here’s a quick list of ten invaluable essentials.
1. Passport
The first rule of adventure is: Always be ready to go! If you find yourself itching to jump on a plane, don’t make not having a current passport a roadblock to adventurous times.
2. Camera
Sharing photos with friends and family is part of the fun on any grand adventure. Invest in a small, inexpensive digital camera and you’ll never have to worry about forgetting the good memories – or losing a costly piece of gear.
3. Plastic Bags
You will never be sorry you packed plastic bags. Pack at least a half-dozen freezer-sized zipper bags – you can use (and reuse) them for organizing your gear, packing wet cloths, protecting valuables or bagging up snacks for the road.
4. Headlamp
Whether you find yourself hiking back to your cabana from town, trekking through the woods on a bathroom run, or even navigating a dark hostel room, a flashlight is a must-have. The headlamp option leaves you hands-free – a blessing if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
5. Swiss Army Knife
A Swiss Army knife is a no-brainer on any and every adventure. Need to open a can of soup or a bottle of soda? Boom. Hangnail? Clipped. Tick? Removed. Moleskin for that wicked blister? Cut. Do yourself a favor and don’t even consider leaving home without one.
6. Bandana
A bandana is another essential multipurpose item. Whether you need a sweatband, washcloth, dust mask, belt or even an emergency bandage – your bandana will come in handy.
7. Sunscreen
While sunscreen is widely available in most countries, you may find yourself so far off the beaten path it’s not easily attainable or just absurdly expensive. Carry some in your pack, and replenish it as needed during provisions runs.
8. Lock
You’re unlikely to regret carrying a small padlock or two as well as a cable lock, even though they add weight to your pack. Padlocks can be used for locking your bags in transit, to keep prying fingers out of your belongings. The cable lock can be used to lock your bag to a friend’s, or to a tree, or to the radiator in your room – whatever you have nearby – if you find you don’t want to carry it with you for a while.
9. Sleep Sack
A sleep sack is useful for camping, hostels, and even hotels with dubious bedding – don’t leave yourself wishing you had an extra layer of protection between you and whatever you’re sleeping on.
10. Plug Adaptors
If you take any electronics with you (and who travels without a single gadget these days?) you will need to charge them at some point. Buy a global plug adaptor kit, and you’ll be covered no matter where you go.