When it comes to travel essentials, everyone has different choices.  Travel essentials can range anywhere from a travel wallet, change of clothing, toiletries, portable chargers to snacks.  Although those bare travel essentials might be great, I’d like you to consider the absolute travel essentials.  Here is my list of the absolute travel essentials I think you should always have on your person and never travel without.

Your ID

No matter your travel destination, your ID is essential.  There are cases where you have lost your ID and can still travel but know that you will have a few hours delay proving your identity.  In most cases, you need a valid government-issued form of identification, and this identification must match the name under which you are traveling.  If you are traveling internationally, a passport is needed.  Not only should you travel with your ID, but it should always be with you or in your person.

A credit card

A credit card is a traveler’s best friend.  It provides security, convenience, and it makes it easier to make purchases when you travel.  Certain credit cards can get you better exchange rates, can be tied to different travel reward programs or services, and gives you the flexibility to make safer purchases.  Paying with a credit card will allow travelers to monitor their bills and expenses upon returning home.  Most importantly, you can more protect yourself from liability due to fraudulent activity.  Like your ID, every traveler should always keep at least one credit card on their person.

Your cell phone

It is advisable to always travel with a cell phone.  Ideally, travelers should make preparations with data plans for making calls.  However, almost all airports offer free Wi-Fi where you can get connected in an emergency. In addition, your cell phone will provide the ability to access resources such as travel information, destination guides, language apps, or currency converters.  While some of these resources require a data plan, many are also available in offline mode.  Downloading movies and books on your phone is a perfect example of using it in offline mode.  Most importantly, we keep everything on our cell phones.  Even though they can are replaceable, once stolen, the data is not easily replaceable.

In my last blog post, I discussed theft on an airplane.  Theft can happen anywhere, and travelers should always be aware of this possibility.  However, if your bags are stolen or misplaced, your ID, credit card, and cell phone are things you cannot replace very quickly.  Imagine not being able to contact your friends and family in an emergency. Not being able to check into a hotel, rent a car, or purchase an airline ticket back home.  While many things are considered essential for travel comfort, think about what is critical to your travel safety and security.

Have you ever misplaced any absolute travel essentials? Comment and let me know.