Travel Taurus Approved: Amazon Wishlist
These are my must have items for the budget international traveler. You may not know that you needed these items but trust me you do! Don’t worry, I will give you a quick explanation on why you need each item. All of these items are under $50 and can be purchased on Amazon with the included links. These also make great gifts for that special traveler in your life!
1. Portable Battery Charger - $45
Trust me, you need a portable battery charger. The worst thing is going out for the day and your phone dying in the middle of an adventure. No more taking photos, you can’t call a ride home, and you no longer have a map. I have realized that a lot of places, outside of the United States, are lacking in spots to charge your phone in public places. I like this particular battery because I can charge my phone on it about 4/5 times before I need to charge the battery. It does take quite a while for the battery to charge back up.
2. Universal Plug Adapter - $12
If your travels take you to another continent, then that country will most likely have a different outlet than what you are used to. You will need this little gadget as a converter. I like this specific device because its small and compact and you only need the one piece. I never travel without this!
3. Combination Lock - $10
A combination lock is a must-have item if you plan on staying at a hostel. You will need this to lock the items in your lockers. Most hostels do not provide you with a lock for your locker. You can also purchase a smaller combination lock and use it to lock your backpack to prevent pickpocketing.
4. Passport Cover- $7
I love this passport cover. I have been using it for over a year and it has held up pretty well. I even use it as a regular wallet when I am not traveling (of course take your passport out if you aren’t using it). It fits all of my credit cards, vaccination card, passport, cash, train ticket, and whatever else you feel like putting in there. This passport cover has RFID blocking so your cards are protected from thieves.
5. Microfiber Towel - $9
Traveling with a towel is definitely something you want to consider. You can use them for multiple reasons. If you are staying at a hostel and they don’t provide a towel for free, then you can save money because you have your own towel. If you are on a tour that involves getting wet, then you will want to have a towel with you to dry off. Also, microfiber is especially great because it dries quickly. You can just wash it in your sink, hang it up to dry, and you’re good to go.
6. Compression Socks- $13
Why am I suggesting you get socks? Well, it’s because compression socks will help with circulation in your legs on long haul flights (5+ hours). If you don’t wear compression socks your feet can swell or even worse, you can get a blood clot which can be deadly. Take my advice, just get the socks.
7. Backpack with Built in Lock - $27
I really love this backpack. It has a lot of compartments and space for everything I need while traveling. The most important feature I like about this backpack is that it has a lock on the top zipper. There are many other features that the backpack offers. Click on the link to find out more information.
8. Motion Sickness Patches - $7
This isn’t necessary for everyone, but I know a lot of travelers that do experience motion sickness at some point during their travels. I get motion sick on planes and boats, but I don’t let that stop me from hopping on a plane or taking a cruise. I just pop these bad boys behind my ear and I’m good for a 3-day period. No drowsiness included.
9. Sea-Band Wristbands -$7
These cute little wristbands use acupuncture to prevent nausea. The great thing about this product is that unlike the patches mentioned above, they can be used over and over again without needing a new pair. My previous pair, which I lost during my most recent trip to Europe, I had for about 4yrs. I will be purchasing another pair soon.
10. Silk Eye Mask - $10
“But I don’t like eye masks Alea. Is this really necessary?” Yes. When you are traveling you may find yourself in a weird situation where you need to sleep but there are lights around you. For example, I traveled to Iceland during May which is their summer. The sun goes down at 12:30am and rises at 3:30am. Guess who wasn’t wearing their sleeping mask and kept waking up at 3:30am because of the sun? Me. Don’t be like me. Wear your eye mask.