Navigating a new country, especially on your first visit, can be daunting when packing. To help, I’ve put together a concise list of five essential items for your vacation—excluding the obvious necessities like your phone, credit/debit card, and passport, which you should always remember that I have learned in my experience traveling.

- A Fanny Pack
Fanny packs are making a comeback and are incredibly practical for travel. They offer easy access to your essentials like documents and phone, especially when you have lots of luggage. Plus, they help you keep track of your belongings and reduce the risk of pick-pocketing. While popular brands like LuluLemon are an option, my $16 Target fanny pack has lasted for years and I don’t stress about it getting wet.

- Body wipes
On long-haul flights without shower access, wipes are essential for feeling refreshed. I use them on my face, armpits, and sensitive areas, particularly favoring Honeypot wipes for sensitive skin (not sponsored). Opt for scent-free wipes for best results. For a thorough refresh, my must-haves are toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and spare underwear and socks.

- Kindle
I highly value my Kindle, particularly during travel transitions at airports. Travel often involves extended periods of waiting, and after prolonged phone use, social media can become monotonous. The compact size of my Kindle allows it to easily fit in my purse, providing a convenient and enjoyable way to pass time during extended waits.

- Headphones with a regular jack for planes
I have found that it is quite nice just bringing my own headphones. Even if the flight attendants do pass them out, it is usually at least an hour into the flight and after all of the training videos. In my humble opinion, this is just something that has really come in handy and made my experience go smoother

- Antihistamines
Are you someone that absolutely cannot sleep on a plane? Me too! Seriously, I would be traveling for 12+ hours overnight and barely be getting any sleep. It was really frustrating and then I would lose my entire first day traveling because I just wanted to sleep! My friend finally told me to take a couple of these and WOW. I will never go without again! Seriously, the first time I did this, I took a couple before dinner, and I was knocked out cold before they even came back to get my plate.
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