Taking a trip out of town is an exciting proposition, but it can also be a daunting one. Leaving the comfort of the familiar for parts unknown is bound to create adventure — but the flip side of adventure is risk and discomfort, and travel has always had some element of that.
But what if you could mitigate the risk and stay comfortable? What if your next trip could be not only fun but safer and more productive? What if you could sooth your worries, ensure better health and enjoy yourself?
Well, good news: there are a huge array of products out there that promise to make your trip easier. From digital devices to old-school low-tech gear, you’ll be covered for any situation. We’ve collated some of our favorites to show you some of the things you should add to your packing list next time you head out to some exotic locale.
1) Thread Wallets
Have you ever sat on a thick wallet for a few hours and gotten that horrible lower lumbar feeling where you’re just never going to sit straight again? Or had to figure out where you’re going to stash that lump of cards and cash so you don’t throw your entire back out?
Thread Wallets creates cool minimalist wallets that help you safeguard your cards and cash in a unique and fun way. Try their phone case wallet or the stick-on version that works with any phone case — it’s a whole lot easier to remember your wallet and phone when they’re both together.
2) Nalgene Water Bottle
The Nalgene water bottle has been a favorite of backpackers for years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s wide-mouthed so you can get inside to clean it easily or add ice cubes, and it matches up with accessories like pump water filters if you’re going somewhere you might need that capability.
If you’re trying to save space, the wide mouth also allows you to put things inside it to eke out that little extra bit of room. And best of all, it’s made of almost indestructible, BPA-free plastic that will stand up to the rigors of any trip.
Staying hydrated is one of the easiest things to neglect while you’re traveling, especially when traveling by air. Keep a reusable bottle with you and you can save money while taking care of the environment.
3) Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Though noise cancellation is commonplace now on headphones of all prices and qualities, Bose remains one of the best options on the market. There’s a reason their name has been associated with noise cancellation technology for so long — if you want to put on a pair of wireless headphones and hear the engine noise of the plane completely disappear, these are your best bet.
Bose’s headphones are also designed for comfort, so on a long plane ride you can tune out the noise without dealing with that clamped feeling that comes from cheaper options. And if you’re traveling with a companion, you can share music with two pairs of QuietComfort headphones.
They’re tailor-made for travel.
4) GlocalMe G3
Have you ever had issues connecting to Wi-Fi in a foreign country? You don’t have to any more. GlocalMe makes wireless hotspots that you can take with you, allowing an easy connection to cellular networks anywhere through their CloudSim technology.
The G3 functions as a private hotspot for up to 5 devices, helping you live the digital nomad lifestyle even if you’re not around a good Wi-Fi connection. Data usage can be managed through the device, with payment easy to set up without a contract. It even functions as a portable battery pack if your mobile devices are a little short on juice.
If you’ve been thinking about taking a trip but weren’t sure if you could because of spotty Wi-Fi, this is an incredible solution that works in over 100 countries. If you have a cellular network, you can get on the Internet, no matter where you go.
5) Lonely Planet eBooks
You remember the famed Lonely Planet travel guides, right? Well, Lonely Planet hasn’t just been sitting back and resting on their laurels. These days their travel guides are available in an ebook form. Obviously, it’s great if you carry a Kindle, iPad, Nook or other tablet or e-reader …
But the best part about these guidebooks? You don’t have to download the whole thing. Wherever you’re going, you can just pay for and download the parts that matter. Get your device set up quickly and easily so you have a resource at your fingertips for anything.
Even if you’re out of range of a cell tower that will work with your GlocalMe Wi-Fi, having this guide in your back pocket will make sure you’re never at a loss for where to go.
No matter where your next trip takes you, if you want to cut down on stress and heartache, you owe it to yourself to try the products on this list. Enjoy the amenities of home (or as close as you can get to them) while traveling the world by using these products. They’ll make your life better and help your next journey be the best one yet.
So why wait? Go pack a bag and see how it goes — adventure awaits!
