7 Must-Haves for International Travel
Ready to jet off to far-flung destinations and explore the world? Hold up, my fellow adventurer - before you hit the runway, let's make sure you're fully equipped with the best international travel must-haves. From keeping your feet comfy on long flights to protecting your internet privacy in unfamiliar territory, we've got you covered with the ultimate travel essentials you may or may not have thought of. You’ll want to throw these items on your next packing list because 1. they’ll come in handy, and 2. because, let's be real, who doesn't love a good shopping excuse?
We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). These are products we’ve heavily researched and stand behind. You can read through our full affiliate disclosure here.
7 travel must-haves for 2024
1. Reusable water bottle: WAATR CrazyCap Pro
This eco-friendly companion from WAATR will quickly become your go-to for all your hydration needs while traveling. Say goodbye to spending a small fortune on overpriced plastic water bottles and hello to your new fav self-cleaning water bottle. It features a double-walled vacuum-insulated design that will keep your drinks hot or cold for hours. Plus, with its durable and leak-proof construction, you won't have to worry about spills in your backpack or suitcase. But the craziest feature? The cap is “equipped with a powerful 20mW UV-C LED light that destroys up to 99.99999% of bacteria.” That means you can quiet those fleeting thoughts that go through your head when drinking water in other countries because this travel water bottle has your back.
Price: starting at $99
2. A reliable VPN: SurfShark
Next on our list is the Surfshark VPN. You may be thinking, "What are VPNs used for, and why do I need one?" A VPN is the ultimate tool for protecting your internet privacy and security while abroad. Whether you're using public Wi-Fi at a café or logging into your bank account from a hotel room, Surfshark VPN will encrypt your data and protect your online privacy. With Surfshark, you can browse the web safely and securely, no matter where your travels take you. And a little travel hack you may not know - using a VPN can sometimes get you deals on flights because the search engines can’t track where you are searching from; thank us later. With its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing, SurfShark is a no-brainer for any tech-savvy traveler.
Price: starting at $2.49/month for 24 months
3. Compression socks: Bombas
Trust us; your feet will thank you for packing these bad boys from Bombas in your suitcase. Perfect for long flights or days spent exploring a new city on foot, these socks provide ultimate comfort and support. Plus, with their fun designs and colors, you'll be the most stylish traveler at the airport (and who doesn't want that?). While it is true these high-quality compression socks are engineered to reduce swelling and improve circulation, they aren’t your grandma’s compression socks. Bombas come in different heights and neutral (or a pop of) colors with both ankle and tall options, so you can keep your fit looking put together. This three-pack is the perfect place to start. Plus, when you buy a pair, they give a pair. We love a charitable business.
Price: starting at $28/pair
4. Packing cubes: Away Travel
Whether you're packing for a short trip or a long-term adventure, Away Travel compression cubes will make your life easier and your packing game stronger. These little cubes are a game-changer when it comes to packing. Say goodbye to the days of digging through your suitcase to find that one shirt buried at the bottom. With these compression cubes, you'll be able to pack more efficiently and stay organized on the go, which is all the more helpful when using carry-ons because airlines are ~unreliable~. It’s honestly shocking how much you can squeeze into one little cube. Their durable construction and sleek design will be a staple in your travel arsenal for years to come.
Price: starting at $45
5. Anti-theft travel purse: Arden Cove
When traveling to new places, if valuables’ safety is a concern, this is the purse you need. It’s the anti-theft purse that doesn’t look like an anti-theft purse. This purse from Arden Cove features slash-resistant fabric, RFID-blocking technology, and lockable zippers to secure your valuables. Whether you're exploring a crowded market or riding a busy subway, you can rest assured that your belongings are safe and sound in Arden Cove. What’s the cherry on the top, you ask? It’s fully waterproof - because when the rain starts coming down, you want to dance in it and not worry about those bills getting soaked.
Price: starting at $127
6. Travel towel: Nomadix
This towel from Nomadix is different from your average towel. It is quick-drying, lightweight, compact, made from recycled materials, and designed with the traveler in mind. Plus, its stylish designs and versatility (use it as a beach towel, yoga mat, or picnic blanket) make it the ultimate multitasker for any adventurer. They claim it’s the only travel towel you’ll ever need, and we can’t really argue. It absorbs 4x its weight in water, dries four times faster than cotton towels, and each is made from 30 recycled bottles. It comes in super handy when your accommodation doesn’t supply beach towels, and it packs into nothing, so you have more room for 500 bikinis.
Price: starting at $38
Read our full review of The Original Towel from Nomadix here.
7. Reusable Bag: BAGGU
Last but not least, we have the Baggu reusable bag - the ultimate solution for eco-conscious travelers who want to reduce their plastic footprint. Many countries have also started to charge for plastic bags in stores, so you can save a bit of change there. This lightweight and compact bag can hold up to 50 lbs, 2-3 plastic bags worth of stuff, and folds into a small pouch. It’s a little gem you may not think to include in your packing, but it comes in perfect for stashing away in your purse or backpack for impromptu shopping trips or carrying souvenirs. You never know when you’ll walk by a bakery and need to purchase all of the pastries in the window. It’s best to be prepared.
Price: starting at $14