Don’t forget these travel essentials for international travel!
Wondering what to pack in a carry-on for an international flight? Travel smarter with these best travel essentials for international travel!
Discover must-have items, documents, travel gear, and tips for a smooth and stress-free trip overseas!
As a frequent solo female traveler, I have taken international trips solo more than 40 times. I have compiled a recommended travel essentials list that you shouldn’t forget for every trip overseas. If you’re new to traveling or planning a trip abroad soon, I hope to help answer your question, “What do I need to bring to travel internationally?”
I have personally traveled to almost 50 countries abroad ~ mostly solo, and these are the top international travel essentials for women. I will also include plane essentials for long flights to make your trip more comfortable.
This is a list of my all-time favorites that I definitely always purchase again and again before an international trip. These are my go-to items, and the things I recommend to my family and friends!
I’ve personally used them myself and always bring them with me whenever I travel.
I hope this post about travel essentials for international travel helps you pack wisely, travel light, and have a smooth and safe trip abroad!
Best Travel Essentials for International Travel
1.Waterproof Passport Protector
Protect your passport wherever you go by considering a waterproof passport protector. I like this particularly because it has pockets inside where I can keep printed luggage tags and other important documents (visa), as well as place my Apple AirTags to ensure I know how to find my passport in case I misplaced it.
Travel Tip: Take a photo of the back of your passport and keep a copy as a backup in case your passport is lost or stolen while traveling internationally.
2. Apple AirTags
This is important to have during international flight and should be on every travel essential list as it helps easily track and locate valuables such as luggage, bags, wallets, and keys using Find My Apps.
3. Universal Travel Adapter
This is probably one of my most used travel essentials for international travels since it enables me to use plug devices into different international electrical socket types. Please note it doesn’t work in ALL countries.
Travel Tip: Ensure to double-check your destination’s plug type because when I traveled to Brazil, I had to buy a separate plug since Brazil uses Type N (three round pins, hexagonal-shaped)
4. Airplane Foot Hammock
I used this when I’m not traveling business class on long flights. It helps to make the flight more comfortable and bearable, so I recommend including it as part of your international travel essentials.
5. Lightweight Charger (fast charging)
A mini battery pack that recharges effectively, quickly, and is lightweight is one of the best travel essentials for international travel. It’s conveniently easy to carry with its on-the-go, minimalist, and smaller design that comes with a USB-C cable.
6. Travel Medicine Organizer
I never travel without the travel medicines I need abroad. For me, safety and health are important, particularly when away from home. I love how I can easily organize over-the-counter pills needed for common travel illnesses inside, conveniently carry them with me, and have peace of mind that I always have them available in case I need any.
Travel Tip: As a pharmacist and frequent traveler, I recommend bringing a little extra of your prescription drugs in case of a delayed flight and unforeseen extended stays to ensure you don’t miss a dose. I also recommend placing labels of each medicine’s name inside the pill organizer, and a clear sticker note listing your allergies, blood type, and current medical conditions in case of needed emergency care.
7. Wet Wipes
Bring multi-purpose wipes that are pre-moistened and disposable. I usually add my 70% isopropyl alcohol travel spray to these unscented baby wipes and use them as disinfecting wipes. Since I don’t normally wear makeup, I also use baby wipes to clean my face on long flights after waking up.
Another plane essential for long flights to pack is antibacterial hand wipes. I normally use these wet ones inside the plane for my hands.
8. Travel Sprays (for disinfectant + antiseptic) +/- Hand Paper Soap
I normally buy a couple of plastic spray bottles and add 70% isopropyl alcohol as disinfectant to use for spraying inside the airplane before flights and upon arrival at my hotel. I like it since I can also use the spray as a first aid antiseptic when I get a small cut. It also works well for me when I apply it to skin that’s itchy. Lastly, I often use it as hand sanitizer despite it drying my hands.
I prefer this as my travel spray as I can use it for multiple purposes. It works well for me every time.
Another must-have for international travel is portable travel soap sheets. I always bring these with me since I like to wash my hands a lot. Knowing I have soap available where I am and when I need it, especially when traveling abroad, gives me peace of mind that I always have something with me to wash my hands when needed.
9. Portable Suitcase Weight Scale
Even as a frequent traveler, I tend to overpack and get carried away with shopping abroad. So, I always bring a weighing scale with me on every trip to help ensure I’m within my maximum luggage weight limit and prevent paying for extra weight at the airport.
Travel Tip: Wear as many heavy items as you can, especially winter coats and sweaters.
Honest travel story that saved me money: Before checking in my luggage, I remember wearing 7 layers of clothes (2 long-sleeve thermals, 2 sweaters, 2 thin bubble jackets, and 1 thick winter coat). Then, took 4 off after and placed them on a travel bag that looks like a shopping bag. Although it’s hot and uncomfortable at first, at least it saved me money.
10. Disposable Face Masks
I use a face mask a lot at the airports and new places because I’m very sensitive to different smells and get nauseated easily. I also use it inside airplanes before sleeping and then changing to a new one upon arrival at a new city.
They are soft and breathable. In addition, I used it for protection as it provides coverage in case I’m coughing or get sick, which sometimes happens when traveling internationally.
11. Sleeping Mask
Sleeping masks are one of the travel essentials for international flight to improve sleep and lessen jet lag. I appreciate how it creates a dark environment that stimulates the production of melatonin, helping maintain our circadian rhythm.
12. Compression Socks
To reduce the risks of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots),leg swelling and improve blood circulation during long flights, it’s very important to wear compression socks/stockings.
13. Small Travel Pillow
I prefer to sleep on an actual cotton down pillow that’s soft and breathable. This small travel pillow is what I prefer to bring on an international flight, as I find it more comfortable.
14. Travel Toothbrushes
These are disposable, on-the-go, waterless mini-brush ideal to bring for a long and overnight flight.
My favorite travel toothbrush
This is what I bring inside my checked bag on every flight. I really appreciate it being lightweight and so easy to travel with. Since it’s rechargeable and has a long battery life, it’s perfect every time I travel a lot for a long time.
15. Travel Water Bottle
I personally prefer a small insulated water bottle when traveling, which I can keep in a small backpack at the airport and while exploring new places. This is my cute go-to travel water bottle. I found it easy to carry and refill with TempShield insulation that keeps the liquid cold or hot for a long time.
16. Best airplane snacks for long flights
My favorites
The following snacks are what I pack in a carry-on for an international flight in case I get hungry during long flights/layovers, and if a meal isn’t served on the next flight.
This is my favorite dried fruit travel snack, especially when traveling abroad! They are so delicious! I have shared these with locals I met in some of the destinations I traveled to, and they loved it as well!
My special favorite salty snacks are the salted cashews (above) and Trader’s Joe Okra Chips.
They keep me happy and comforted during an international travel.
These Special K Protein Meal Bars are my long-time favorite sweet and filling snacks! I love how I can conveniently have them as a quick on-the-go meal in case I get hungry or don’t have time to grab food for my next flight.
I don’t often eat them back home, only when traveling, and it satisfies my hunger. Thus, I always bring some with me as a quick and just-in-case replacement meal during international travel.
17. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are always on my travel essential list because they make packing less stressful, helping with categorizing travel items and keeping them organized. I used them to ensure I only pack what I need and I know I will use, so they prevent me from overpacking.
18. Pocket Toilet Spray
On-the-Go privacy and freshness that can effectively neutralize odor, it’s ideal to bring when traveling without feeling embarrassed and self-conscious anywhere you go, just in case you need to go!
19. Long Silk Scarf
I used a silk scarf as a pillowcase cover at hotels and for other purposes, such as protection from the sun, warmth on chilly days, and fashion when pairing it with an outfit.
20. Trash Bags +/- clear travel mini bags
I normally only bring an item on my trip when I know it makes my travel a lot less stressful.
I typically bring four to five trash bags that I will use to separate and place my dirty laundry, wet clothes, and when packing my shoes. They help me categorize things and keep me organized while traveling.
Travel Tips: If you’re like me, who easily gets motion sickness, remember to bring small plastic bags in your travel bag that you always carry with you before getting on a boat cruise, car ride to zig-zag places, or up in the mountains, or prior to doing an activity that will cause you to feel nauseated. Don’t forget to take your medicine 30 minutes to 1 hour before the activity to prevent vomiting.
21. Whipped Korean Facial Cleanser (my favorite)
If some people cannot travel without bringing their makeup, for me, I cannot travel without my skincare, especially my preferred facial cleanser to clean, brighten, and freshen up my face after a long flight and everyday tour and exploration abroad.
If I feel dirty, I feel stressed. Therefore, this is definitely one of the must-have travel essentials that I cannot go without!
22. Best Skin Moisturizers for Travel (my favorites)
Before a long flight and every night
Good Cera cream keeps my skin so soft and looking radiant. I love how the cream quickly absorbs into my skin. It’s so smooth with a non-oily texture. I genuinely appreciate it as it keeps my skin so well hydrated for a long time without being greasy!
Every Morning Moisturizer
I apply this every morning when I travel since I don’t wear foundation and barely apply makeup except blush and lipstick/gloss. For me, it works for blemish care. It’s a popular Korean moisturizer with PDRN and niacinamide.
23. Shiseido Sunscreen (my everyday + travel favorite must-have)
I genuinely love this skincare stick and appreciate that it’s a CLEAR, WEIGHTLESS, direct and mess-free application on the skin sunscreen with increased broad-spectrum SPF 60+ protection that provides 8-hours of hydration for a transparent and natural glow!
I use it every day, even when I’m not traveling. I’m very impressed with Shiseido SynchroShield technology, which combines WetForce and HeatForce technologies to make the sunscreen more effective in intense heat and water/perspiration.
People often ask what I use for skincare because they notice I’m not wearing any makeup and my skin is flawless and glowing. This is the product I always recommend to them for a naturally glowing finish after applying my clear moisturizer!
It’s small and easy to use. Absolutely, it’s the best easy-to-apply and on-the-go travel sunscreen everywhere I go!
24. Hydrating Overnight Mask
If you want to have a glowy and brighter skin upon arriving at your destination, for me, this is the best hydrating face mask for flights. It keeps my skin refreshed and radiant even after a long international flight. It provides deep hydration for soft and smooth skin.
25. Comfortable Versatile Clothes
Even if I have a white and unisex Ralph Lauren t-shirt, polo, and dress, I still always wear this hooded long-sleeve shirt and pair it with comfortable Lululemon pants and Hoka shoes for a long international flight.
Travel Tip: Ensure to pack versatile clothes that are adaptable and multi-purpose that can be worn in different ways, styled for various occasions (day-to-night), and easily mixed and matched with other travel items you pack.
I will probably always wear this stylish and comfortable shirt on every international flight! If I don’t wear it, I’d still pack it as I can use it in different ways, as it’s easy to combine it with other pieces I’d bring whenever I travel, even with my pajama pants.
26. Comfortable Shoes
My favorite travel footwear:
My personal favorite that I always wear when traveling, even when hiking, is the HOKA Transport Chukka GTX in oat-milk color. However, last time I checked, it’s currently out of stock.
The Bondi 9 is still very comfortable to wear at the airport and especially during long walks while traveling. The white color also goes well with any outfit.
I’m more of a minimalist when traveling, so I tend to wear an airport shoes that’s also designed for hiking, just in case my travel itinerary includes some hiking! Therefore, the HOKA Transport Chukka GTX is my preferred footwear for international trips involving hiking activities.
Most of my winter travel items are from Columbia. One of my favorites is this Omni-Heat and lightweight hiking boot for winter outdoor activities. I really appreciate how it keeps my feet warm, dry, and comfortable when exposed to prolonged rain and snow. So, I highly recommend it!
If you’re traveling to tropical destinations and plan to go snorkeling, island hopping, and walking at beaches with lots of rocks, I recommend bringing this pair of water shoes. I’ve used them several times during trips abroad, and they helped protect my feet.
I also used this pair during a mini 1 hour hike to a waterfall in Brazil that also includes kayaking and swimming in the river as part of the adventure.
Travel Tip: If you have flat feet, consider changing the shoe inserts to your personal orthotics. Based on my experience, they’re so much more comfortable, especially on long walks and tropical adventure hikes.
STYLISH, ultra lightweight, waterproof & washable footwear
I like wearing these with socks at the airports during a long flight! They are so lightweight, comfortable, and stylish! It’s definitely one of my favorite pairs to wear when traveling internationally to tropical countries, and I forgot to get my nails done (haha)
This Birkenstock is my most “all-around” footwear when traveling!
It’s my most-used Birkenstock pair I own since I always wear them as soon as I check in at hotels, in the shower, and even on rainy days.
Because they’re waterproof, I can use them both indoors in the bathroom and outdoors at the beach, casual events, and even at airports, especially when traveling in tropical countries.
Travel Tip: If you have plantar fasciitis, you’ll love Birkenstocks because they’re specifically designed with strong, built-in, and contoured arch support. So, they are always so comfortable, even for someone like me with flat feet!
27. Travel Bags + Luggage
Travel Luggage
Please note this is not the exact luggage and bags I own, but the color and style are similar. I prefer to bring a carry-on with more room to place my travel items inside. So, choose luggage based on your needs.
Travel Tip to help make every trip less stressful
Pack at least 2 extra pairs of underwear and 2 comfortable clothes in your carry-on.
If your check-in luggage is delayed, you have backup clothes for up to two days.
The purpose is to prepare for possible delayed luggage to avoid the inconvenience of buying and wearing new clothes that haven’t been washed. This will save you time, especially if you’re on a paid tour with a full itinerary.
Honest travel story: I always do this on every trip. When my sister and I had delayed luggage in Singapore, I didn’t have to struggle and deal with the inconveniences. I packed what I needed to last me for 2 days at least in my carry-on ~always. So, it was a lot less stressful for me, even with delayed luggage.
Travel Bags I used often & always bring with me
Please note this is not the exact anti-theft crossbody bag I own, but I recommend it because it has RFID blocking and I read good reviews about this product.
The one I won is similar in style and color but it’s from Etsy, and it’s a custom-made one with my initial/name on it.
I always receive compliments on this cute Columbia bag I always wear when I travel, especially during the winter season. It’s very lightweight and comfortable to wear! I love how it goes well with any outfit, and I can always pair it with my favorite Columbia boots.
28. Sunglasses + Hat
Protect your eyes and face from the sun, so don’t forget to bring sunglasses and hat as part of your travel essentials for international travel to help you enjoy your trip even more!
I also like to wear a hat at the airports and inside the airplane when it’s cold, as it helps to keep me warm.
Travel Tips: Before packing, check the weather and your travel itinerary to ensure you’re packing appropriately and bringing what you’ll need to prepare for the weather and activities in your travel destination.
International Travel Must Haves ~ what to bring when traveling abroad
29. Valuables
Ensure you place all these valuables securely in your carry-on bag.
- Passport + Visa: Required before boarding any international flight. Check for expiration and entry requirements.
- Bring pen as some countries may require to fill out an arrival card.
- Travel insurance + medical documents + medicines/Rxs: Carry a copy of your travel insurance, notes of allergies ,current prescriptions, and existing medical conditions in case of emergency care. Depending on where you travel, you may need proof of vaccinations. Have digital copies saved as well. Importantly, please don’t forget your medicines!
- Cash + credit cards: Remember to bring some cash and credit cards with no international transaction fees, and inform your bank about your travel abroad.
- Cellphone + travel cameras + charger: A must-have for international travel is a reliable camera to capture special memories and beautiful scenery while traveling! For me, the best travel camera for video recording to capture the surroundings is Insta 360. I also bring insta360 GO 3S using the necklace as I find it most convenient when exploring bustling and crowded places, since I get to fully be present and immersed in that experience without needing to hold a camera.
Travel Tips: How to Stay Safe Traveling Abroad
- If you’re traveling solo, ensure you share your live locations with trusted family members.
- Electronic Travel Documents: Save copies of all your passport, flights, transportation, hotels, itineraries, and reserved tours/activities that can be easily accessed even without wifi.
- Travel Tip: Share/send travel plans/documents with family for safety and trip schedule tracking. Before I leave for the flight, I always send my family members all these documents so they know everything about my trip and where I’ll be from start to finish.
- If you’re a U.S citizen, enroll your trip at the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety, health, weather, and security updates for your destination. It will also help the U.S. Embassy to reach you in case of an emergency.
I hope this post about travel essentials for international travel helps you pack wisely and travel safely to have a smooth and stress-free trip abroad.
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