5 Things I Never Travel Without: A Photographer's Packing List
What if five small items could completely transform your travel experience—from chaotic to calm, clunky to compact, and stressful to seamless?
You really don’t need much to travel well, and I’m a huge fan of travelling as light as possible! It’s about choosing wisely, but these are five items I can just can’t travel without for a host of reasons.
Whether it’s the hush of a redeye flight, the rush of a new city, or the slow rhythm of a train ride through nowhere, having just a few thoughtful essentials can make the difference between a trip that drains you and one that inspires.
From the kind of earplugs that actually work (goodbye, airplane noises that can freak me out) to waterproof shoes that don’t look like they came from a hiking store clearance bin and some really simple essentials for film camera enthusiast, that I just can't do without.
Loops Ear Plugs and Eye Mask
Yes, technically I’m mentioning two items, but together, they’re a total travel essential. As a lifelong light sleeper, I’ve tried every type of earplug, and nothing beats the Loop earplugs. Unlike foam options, they’re actually comfortable, stylish, and seriously effective. With certified 17dB sound reduction, they lower noise without killing sound quality, which I find is perfect for staying focused while shooting in noisy areas or keeping calm on noisy flights.
They come with multiple tip sizes for a snug, secure fit and are reusable, easy to clean, and built for regular use. I use them not just for sleep, but throughout the day to reduce sensory overload so that I’m not worn out by the end of the day.
Top tip, pair them with this soft, light-blocking eye mask, and it’s game over for distractions. Together, they cut out the chaos, reduce sensory overload, and help me arrive refreshed. For me, good rest means better mood, better travel, and a lot more energy to enjoy the trip.
DO NOT X-RAY Pouch by SISSILU
After the couple of disasters I’ve had with film on my travels this is a real must have to support with reducing airport security stress and ensuring that it’s easy to understand the need for your film to go round the x-ray machine.
The DO NOT X-RAY film pouch is a matte mesh zipper bag that features a clear warning printed in seven languages, helping to break down any language barriers when you request hand checks. Bonus feature is that it also comes with a travel card offering translations in 21 additional languages, so you're prepared almost anywhere. While it can’t guarantee X-ray avoidance, it gives you a solid chance to protect your film.
Travel Adapter for UK Plug, USB and USB-C Leads
Ricokey Travel Adapter
It goes without saying you need a good travel adapter, this one by Ricokey is simple, sturdy, and exactly what you need for a UK to EU travel adapter . It is one of those small items that makes a big difference. It fits securely in European sockets (no wobble), and the grounded design means added safety for charging more sensitive devices like laptops. I’ve used it across several European countries so far without a hitch, and the slim profile doesn’t hog space in your bag, (I’m not a fan of the fold away plugs as I have found they break easier). The added bonus of the orange flexi led light is a useful aid during the night when unplugging.
Airplane Phone Holder
The Lamicall Airplane Phone Holder is one of those genius little travel gadgets you didn’t know you needed until you use it. It clips easily onto seat trays, luggage handles, or tables and holds your phone securely at just the right angle for hands-free viewing.
This has saved a lot of neck pain and helped keep me distracted better when on a flight watching a movie or listening to a playlist so will be great for long haul flights to binge-watching your favourite series. It’s lightweight, folds down small enough to thrown into your pocket, and feels surprisingly sturdy.
A total game changer for me when on a plane and waiting in airports!
TopicFeel Sunset Waterproof Trainers
Tropicfeel Sunset Shoes
The Tropicfeel Sunset shoes are easily some of the most versatile and best looking travel shoes I’ve ever worn. Lightweight, breathable, and genuinely waterproof, they handle everything from city streets to beach hikes without issue.
The clever slip-on design with adjustable Sprint Laces makes airport security quick (especially when you’re that person randomly chosen to remove their shoes), and after sandy or wet adventures, they dry fast thanks to AirTech mesh and Drainsole technology.
They feel like everyday trainers but perform like serious travel gear, they are very grippy when walking across slippery surfaces so help you feel safe and built for long days on your feet. Whether you’re walking miles, hopping on boats, or heading out for dinner, they adapt perfectly.
The foldable heel lets them switch to a slipper like feel for all day wear, and they even resist odours with Aegis antibacterial treatment.
Bonus: they pack down small, so they won’t hog room in your bag.
If you’re building a smart travel kit, definitely check out Tropicfeel’s other packable gear.
Pack Smart, Travel Better
With just a few well chosen items from calming earplugs to adaptable waterproof shoes, you can travel lighter and smarter. Whether you're off on a weekend break or a long-haul adventure, don’t leave without these essentials.
Got your own can't-travel-without item? Share it in the comments below and if you have found this helpful save this list or send it to a fellow travel lover.