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5 Travel ‘Essentials’ You Don’t Actually Need - And What to Bring Instead

    🎒 Deinfluencing travel packing

    Travel shopping is a rabbit hole. Those must-have gadgets promising to make your trip smoother? Most of the time, they just weigh you down. After visiting over 35 countries, here’s my take: ditch the bulky extras and pack smart with space-saving essentials that are actually useful. 

    Here are 5 travel ‘essentials’ you can definitely skip - plus the clever swaps I swear by.

    1. Bulky Neck Pillows - Say Hello to Comfort (Without the Bulk!)

    You know the ones: giant U-shaped pillows that stick out like a sore thumb on your carry-on, collecting dirt and rarely feeling comfy. I’ve tried them, its not worth it. For long haul or multi-flight madness (shoutout to my 2-day London to Raja Ampat journey), an inflatable pillow that you can adjust to actually be comfortable and deflate to pack away.

    Inflatable U-Shaped Travel Neck Pillow with Adjustable Strap – Lightweight & Compact for Flights, Holidays & Commuting -  Travel essentials

    Or if you're a frequent traveller, you might consider investing in the trtl travel pillow (or a similar type) this is a game changer - super comfy, easy to pack, and lightweight. 

     

    2. Trendy Stainless Steel Water Bottles - Go Foldable Instead

    Sure, those sleek water stainless steel bottles look cool, but they’re bulky and awkward when you’re juggling airport security and a carry-on. 

    My go-to? A collapsible water bottle like this travel-friendly bottle, which folds into the height of your phone when empty and expands to fit half a litre of water for day trips. It saves so much space in your bag and it's genuinely leakproof!

    Foldable Water Bottle - Lightweight, Travel-Friendly Water Bottle - Tribe Feel

    Perfect for your carry-on. If you're looking for something even more compact, you can try a fully foldable design for a ultra-compact travel-friendly water bottle. 

    Folding Water Bottle Food Grade Silicone - Travel Portable - Tribe Feel

     

    3. Duffle Bags / hand bags - Swap for Foldable Backpacks

    Those hefty duffle bags and handbags might seem like fashionable bags, but they slow you down and will make one shoulder sore by the end of your travel days - trust me, I learned the hard way. 

    Instead, I swear by a foldable backpack. I pack one in my larger carry-on and whenever I need a smaller bag for day trips, I have this handy for all my day-to-day essentials. There are a lot of good options here, depending on the type of trip.

    For short hikes and water activities, I use a simple, lightweight and water resistant foldable backpack like this one. 

    Lightweight Folding Daypack | Collapsible Travel Backpack - Tribe Feel

    If you're thinking of something sturdy or spacious enough for a full day/ overnight - this incredibly compact backpack can expand up to 40L. 

    The Ultimate Travel Folding Backpack – Adventure-Ready & Packable Travel Rucksack - Tribe Feel

    4. That One Statement Outfit - Pack Staples, Not Stress

    We all have that one ‘special occasion’ outfit tucked away, but unless you’re off to a destination wedding, it’s just extra weight. Instead, pack versatile staples - neutral tops, comfy trousers, and layering pieces you can mix, match, and re-wear. Yes, you can do laundry on your travels. 

    I'm no fashion blogger, but sticking to a colour palette has helped me with planning travel outfits, so most pieces work well together reducing your packing stress and laundry load. Even the right cute, comfortable airport outfit can be re-purposed. 

    Women’s Airport Outfit – T-Shirt & Shorts Travel Set | Tribe Feel  Travel Clothing

    5. Passport Covers - Keep It Simple and Secure

    Let's be honest, passport covers are just decoration. If that's what you're looking for, by all means, I have definitely seen some cute passport holders, but when you’re constantly pulling your passport out at security, customs, and boarding gates, fiddling with a cover can slow you down. Instead, I keep my passport handy with a travel pouch that has enough space to hold your passport, cards, boarding passes, and cash - all in one easy-to-access place. Except, remember to spread out some of your cash and cards in different places just in case!

    I love this practical waist bag - slim, stylish, and keeps everything handy without the fuss.

    Waterproof Waist Bag – Versatile Crossbody for Travel & Everyday - Tribe Feel

     

    💡 Remember: The Best Travel Essentials Are Multi-Taskers

    Minimalist packing is about smart choices, not less comfort. Pick gear that works harder for you, saves space, and reduces stress.

    If you want to check out the exact travel essentials I swear by, here’s my curated Travel Gear Collection - tried, tested, and loved by thousands of fellow adventurers.

    *This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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