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Traveling the world is a thrilling experience, and having the right everyday carry (EDC) items can make your journey more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. As a frequent traveler myself, I've learned the importance of packing smart, and I'm excited to share my recommended EDC essentials that have been a game-changer for my travels.

1. Backpack/Bag

First, let's talk about the backpack or messenger bag. A reliable backpack is a must-have for any world traveler. Look for a bag that is sturdy, water-resistant, and has multiple compartments for organization. I personally love the Peak Designs Travel Backpack 30L for its durability and size - it's small enough to fit under the seat on most airlines but large enough to hold all of my essentials. Plus, Peak Designs have an amazing lifetime warranty on their products. So you buy it once and if it breaks just let them know and they will fix it or give you a new one for free.

2. Portfolio/Wallet

Now, let's dive into what's inside the bag. The first item on my list is a travel wallet. This wallet should be able to hold all of your essential documents like your passport, boarding passes, and visas. I recommend a wallet with RFID protection to keep your personal information safe from identity theft. The Bellroy Travel Wallet is a great option for its slim design and multiple compartments for organization.

3. Portable Charger

Next up, is a portable charger. As a traveler, you're always on the go, and having a charged phone is crucial for navigation, communication, and capturing memories. I recommend the Anker 633 for its compact size, fast-charging capabilities, and ability to charge multiple devices.

4. World Travel Adapter

Another must-have item is a universal adapter. Different countries have different outlets and voltages, so it's important to have an adapter that can handle any situation. The Ceptics World Travel Adapter is a great choice as it is compact, durable, and works in over 150 countries.

5. Dopp Kit

Now, let's talk about hygiene. Staying clean and fresh while traveling is essential, and having a small kit with all the essentials is a game-changer. My hygiene kit includes travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and facial wipes. I recommend Peak Designs Small Wash Pouch for its compact size and durable design. And again that lifetime warranty means you’ll only need to buy it once.

6. Sleep Mask

When traveling, it's common to encounter unfamiliar sleeping environments, such as different lighting, noises, uncomfortable beds, or trying the get some sleep on the flight. These factors can disrupt your sleep pattern and leave you feeling fatigued during the day. The one I use is the Manta Sleep Mask Pro, a sleep mask can block out unwanted light and help you fall asleep faster, and deeper, making you feel much more energetic and present during your trip.

7. Headphones

A good pair of noise-canceling headphones. Long flights and noisy environments can be tiring and overwhelming, but a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. The Bose Noise Cancelling 700 Headphones are a popular choice for their exceptional noise-canceling capabilities and comfortable fit.

8. A Pen

From a lot of experience in the past having to ask other people on the flight for a pen to fill out forms that were handed out during international flights, I now would really recommend bringing your own. If you want a pen with a lot of aviation and aerospace history check out the Fisher Space Pen. These pens were made famous through their debut on the Apollo 7 mission back in 1968. Which maybe it’s just me but i think stuff like that is pretty neat.

You can really bring any pen. Just maybe avoid fountain pens. The pressure changes will most likely cause the cartridge to leak and make a massive mess in your bag.

9. Water Bottle

Bringing an empty water bottle through security at an airport or other public transportation facility is a budget and eco-friendly choice. Not only does it save money by avoiding purchasing overpriced drinks at the airport, but it also reduces waste by reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles. Additionally, the ability to refill the water bottle once past security ensures you stay hydrated during the journey, which is especially important during long flights or train rides. I’m a fan of YETI, but of course, any reusable bottle will do the trick. You might even consider a collapsible water bottle to save space in your pack. For that, I’d definitely recommend HydraPak. I use those hiking and haven’t had any of them start leaking

10. Inflatable Travel Pillow

Admittedly I don’t use a travel pillow myself, but a lot of people have a difficult time getting sleep on a plane, bus, ferry, or however it is your traveling. So if you are a person like that a good travel pillow can provide comfort and support for your neck, helping you get some rest. Having a travel pillow can improve your overall travel experience, as it can help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated when you reach your destination. I can’t firmly recommend a specific one as the best since I don’t use them, but Manta Sleep makes a Travel Pillow. I love them for their sleep masks, so i'm assuming their pillows are also of top notch quality and they have super great reviews so go ahead and check that out as an option.

Traveling the world can be an amazing adventure, and having the right EDC items can make your journey more comfortable and convenient. Remember to pack light and only bring the items that are truly necessary for the bag your hauling around the airport. It's also a good idea to research the local customs and laws of the countries you're visiting to avoid any potential issues with the items you're carrying. For example, some countries have strict rules about carrying certain medications or electronic devices. Having a well-planned EDC can make a world of difference in your travels. With the right items on hand, you can stay organized, comfortable, and well-prepared for long travel days.

Everyday Carry For a World Traveler