7 Essential Items to Pack for Your Next Vacation

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're heading to a tropical paradise for a family vacation, a bustling city for a weekend getaway, or a remote adventure with some friends, ensuring you have all of your essential items is key to enjoying your time away and avoiding any unexpected issues. To help you prepare for your next trip, we’ve compiled a travel checklist of must-have items that may have slipped your mind. Keep reading to see if there is anything you forgot to include on your packing list!

Please Note: This blog provides a general overview of travel tips and travel insurance. It is not all-encompassing and should not be taken as specific advice. Be sure to discuss your unique circumstances with a licenced insurance broker and/or travel professional to receive guidance tailored to your situation. 

Travel Essential #1: Money

Having access to funds is a must when travelling, so it's important to bring a combination of credit and debit cards, along with some local currency for places that may not accept card payments. While most major destinations are card-friendly, smaller businesses, taxis, and local markets might operate on a cash-only basis. It’s also a good idea to have a backup payment option, such as a prepaid travel card or mobile payment app, in case one method isn’t accepted. Keep your cash and cards in separate places - such as a day bag and a secure pocket - to avoid being left without funds if you misplace your wallet.

Travel Essential #2: Travel Documents

Having the right travel documents organized and easily accessible can save you time and stress throughout your trip. Before you leave, make both digital and physical copies of essential documents, including your passport, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, transportation tickets, and emergency contact details. Store digital copies securely on your phone or email so you can access them if your physical documents are lost or stolen. Some destinations require proof of immunization or other health-related documentation for entry, so be sure to research this well in advance and carry any necessary vaccination records. Keeping all your documents in a dedicated travel pouch or organizer will help ensure they’re always within reach when needed - whether at customs, your hotel check-in, or during excursions. Having everything in one place can also make security checks smoother and prevent unnecessary delays.

Travel Essential #3: Electronics

A smartphone is an essential travel tool, helping with navigation, translation, booking, and communication. To avoid costly roaming fees, consider a local tourism SIM card or eSIM for affordable data access. Many airports and stores offer prepaid options with generous data plans for travellers, so be sure to keep an eye out for them if you want to have regular access to your phone while abroad. If photography is a big part of your travel experience, a compact camera can be a great addition. Be sure to bring extra memory cards or use a cloud storage service to back up your photos in case you lose or damage your camera.

Travel Essential #4: Charging Options

Nothing is worse than your phone dying in the middle of an adventure, leaving you without maps, translation apps, or a way to capture memories. A portable charger ensures your devices stay powered throughout the day, especially when you’re on long tours, hikes, or flights. Opt for a high-capacity power bank that can charge multiple devices at once. A universal power adapter is also essential when traveling to a country with different plug types. Make sure you research the plug types used at your destination in advance to ensure you have the right adapter for your trip.

Travel Essential #5: Health Supplies

A well-stocked first-aid kit can be a lifesaver for minor health issues while travelling. Pack essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, motion sickness tablets, and allergy medication. If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep them in their original packaging to avoid issues at customs. If travelling with essential medications, consider packing them in your carry-on bag so that they are always accessible.

Travel Essential #6: Toiletries & Comfort Items

While many hotels provide basic toiletries, bringing your own ensures you have what you need, especially if you have sensitive skin or prefer specific brands. A well-packed toiletry kit should include travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, as not all accommodations offer high-quality options. Other must-haves include toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer for hygiene on the go. 

For added convenience, consider packing a microfiber towel, which dries quickly and is perfect for beach trips, hikes, or budget accommodations that don’t provide towels. A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated throughout your travels, and a sleep mask and earplugs can make long flights or noisy hotels more comfortable. Having these essentials on hand ensures you stay fresh, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your trip.

Travel Essential #7: Travel Medical Insurance

One of the most overlooked yet crucial items to pack is travel insurance. No one expects to face a medical emergency while on vacation, but accidents and illnesses can happen at any time. Without coverage, medical treatment in another province or country can be costly, making travel medical insurance an essential safeguard.
Policies may include coverage for hospital stays, emergency medical treatment, ambulance services, and doctor’s fees, ensuring you receive the care you need without facing overwhelming expenses. However, coverage details can vary, so it’s important to contact an insurance broker and review your options carefully before purchasing. 

Get Ready for Takeoff With BIG

Taking the time to properly pack for your trip can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. By ensuring you have these seven essentials, you’ll be ready for almost anything your trip throws at you. If you need assistance comparing your travel insurance options, our team is here to help. Contact a BIG broker directly or request a quote for travel insurance online today to learn more. Happy travels!