Packing for a trip is one of the most dreaded tasks for travellers heading abroad or visiting somewhere in the UK. Whether you have to adhere to strict airline luggage regulations or not, many of us know the struggle of packing everything into a single bag or suitcase. Prioritising shoes, clothing, cosmetics and medication are the focus for most holidaymakers when packing, but travel experts suggest that some items are a must-have for making your trip go more smoothly.
Express.co.uk asked seasoned travellers what item they always pack in their suitcases, and the results were surprising. Kylie Bawden, travel PR Director at FINN Partners, said it’s an extension lead that always makes the cut when she’s packing for a trip.
Kylie explained, “It’s very boring, but I always have a charging brick for all trips. For longer-haul trips, I will always take a compact extension lead with multiple charging options.”
The reason is simple, said the PR expert: “There are never enough plugs in hotel rooms and those they do have are always in awkward places within the room.”
Everything is done virtually now – boarding passes, hotel confirmations, etc, and if your phone dies, you cannot access any of those things. Some airlines, like Ryanair, charge a fee for printing boarding passes at the airport if you haven’t already checked in online.
Louise Truman, founder of Plotpackers, points out that travelling with phones and laptops is useless without a “good quality travel adaptor”, which she says is “absolutely essential” for every trip.
Louise explained: “It might not be the flashiest gadget, but it’s absolutely essential. No matter where I’m headed, having a reliable adaptor means I can charge my phone, camera, or laptop without scrambling to find the right plug or worrying about compatibility.
“It’s one of those items that can quickly turn a smooth trip into a frustrating one if forgotten.”
Argos, Boots and Maplin sell various styles and multiple plug types online and in some stores.
While chargers are the most sought-after hand luggage item, Lorena Basualdo, luxury travel advisor and co-founder of ItalianTourism.us, says her “must-have item” is wearable, but multi-use.
Lorena said, “I always pack a lightweight, compact travel scarf with hidden pockets in my hand luggage.
“It’s incredibly versatile – perfect for chilly planes, unpredictable weather, or as a discreet place to store valuables like passports and cash. I won’t travel without it because it adds both comfort and security without taking up much space.”
For those who struggle to fit everything into their luggage, the travel experts suggested using compression packing cubes to keep things organised and maximise suitcase space.
“This simple gadget can make a big difference, especially on longer trips where efficient packing is key,” said Lorena.