Our Top 5 Travel Items Right Now

Packing the right essentials can make or break your travel experience. Even the most experienced travelers occasionally leave a crucial item behind, potentially putting a damper on the coming trip. However, the best way to learn what you need is to forget it once! 

I do loads of research for every purchase, and these are my five essentials I never travel without. 

Able Carry Max Backpack

After years of research, testing countless backpacks, scouring online reviews, and watching endless YouTube videos, the winner of my quest was the Able Carry Max Backpack. I could not be happier with my choice, and even without its great lifetime warranty, I expect to rely on this backpack for years to come.

Able Carry also offers a smaller 20L backpack, but the 30L is perfect for a long weekend trip, or to supplement your luggage on longer trips. The strap system is one of the most comfortable I’ve used on any non-hiking backpack. The many compartments, including a few hidden pockets—help me keep all my stuff separated and organized. 

Features:

• Capacity: 30 liters, providing ample space for all your travel essentials
• Materials: Made from durable Cordura nylon, ensuring long-lasting use
• Design: Sleek minimalist design, suitable for casual and professional settings
• Compartments: Nine zippered compartments, including internal mesh pockets, an easy-access front pocket, and a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch laptop
• Comfort: Ergonomic shoulder straps and a padded back panel for comfortable carrying, even on long journeys
• Security: YKK zippers and secret hidden pockets for added security and peace of mind.

Anker MagGo Power Bank

One of the most annoying things to happen when traveling is having your phone die. This happens more often when traveling because of how fast the battery drains when having the camera app open on your phone. For someone like me, who tends to take way too many pictures, my phone is usually out of juice by midday. I refuse to lug around a large, heavy power bank, so the Anker MagGo is perfect for even the most battery-draining days on the road. 

With apologies to Android users, one of the best things about the MagGo is that when you need a charge you just hold against the back of your iPhone and it attaches itself magnetically. Forget finding that darn charging cord. It’s completely unobtrusive, allowing me to continue to use my phone as it’s charging. This is absolutely a must-have in my mind. 

Features:

• Capacity: A 10,000mAh, provides roughly 1.8 full charges for an iPhone 15 Plus
• Cord-Free: The magnetic wireless charger securely attaches to compatible devices
• Fast Charging: A USB-C port with Power Delivery (PD) for fast charges
• Portability: The slim and lightweight design (4.22 × 2.71 × 0.78 in), make it easy to carry in your pocket or bag
• Versatility: Charge multiple devices simultaneously, thanks to wireless and wired links 
• LED Indicators: Battery level indicators show your remaining power at a glance

Airalo eSIM App

Gone are the days of scrambling to find a shop to sell a SIM card as soon as you land in a new country. The availability of eSIMs has made staying online abroad easier than ever. There are a lot eSIM apps out there, many of which I have tested, and Airalo is bar-none the best. 

You don’t need a lot from an eSIM; it just needs to work and be easy to install. Airalo makes installation a breeze and offers service in most countries. Once I know I am going to a certain country, I buy the eSIM for it and install. Once I land, I turn it on and I’m good to go. 

Features:

• Global Coverage: Access to mobile data in over 190 countries without a physical SIM
• Ease of Use: Simple setup process through the app, with no need for visiting stores or waiting for SIM cards to be delivered
• Flexible Plans: Wide range of data plans to suit different needs and budgets, from short-term to long-term options
• Cost-Effective: Competitive pricing compared to traditional roaming charges
• Instant Activation: eSIMs can be activated instantly upon purchase
• Multiple eSIMs: Ability to switch between multiple eSIMs on one device, ideal for frequent travelers

Rhoback Hoodie

Most people have a go-to travel outfit for planes, trains, and automobiles. Mine always includes a Rhoback Hoodie. It is easily the most comfortable hoodie I’ve ever worn. The material isn’t so heavy that you overheat, but it’ll keep you warm even on chilly late-night flights. Rhoback has burst onto the casual fashion scene in the last few years, so you’ll likely see other travelers sporting their hoodies and Q-zips sweatshirts. 

Features:

• Material: The high-quality polyester and spandex blend is soft, stretchy, and breathable
• Design: Athletic fit with a modern design, suitable for active wear and casual outings
• Moisture-Wicking: Moisture-wicking keeps you dry and comfortable when active 
• Versatility: Lightweight and easy to layer; suitable for various weather conditions
• Durability: Resistant to pilling and shrinking, ensuring long-lasting wear

Bose NC700 Headphones

Last but not least, my trusty headphones. These things have been through the ringer with me over the past five years, and never disappointed. There are newer models, but I still prefer the NC700s, given their quality, and the fact that you can likely find them heavily discounted. 

Noise-canceling headphones are a must for blocking out all the noises that come along with airports, flights, trains, and make for a much more relaxing journey. Long battery life is crucial and the NC700s usually last a full day on one charge. With easy Bluetooth connectivity and customization features in the app, you’ll be listening to your sounds just the way you like them. 

Features:

• Noise Cancellation: Advanced noise-canceling tech with 11 adjustable levels
• Sound Quality: High-fidelity audio performance with deep bass and clear treble
• Comfort: Lightweight, comfortable design with angled ear cups
• Battery Life: Up to 16 hours of wireless playback on a single charge
• Voice Control: Built-in voice assistants (Alexa and Google Ass) for hands-free control
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and seamless connection with devices
• Touch Control: Ear-cup touch controls for easy access to volume, calls, music playback

This is just my personal list, but if you travel as much as me, you’ll have a good idea of just how much I’ve tested these products – and how much I’ve come to rely on them. 

We’re always looking for great new staff at Escape Artist, so tell us your packing list and maybe one of your essentials will be featured in an upcoming issue.

Daniel Wilhelm