THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GEAR REVIEW FOR BEGINNERS

Travel Gear Review

The first time boarding a plane for a long-distance flight, or packing the car for a road trip is the start to an exciting adventure.

There are plenty of points to check in order to make sure that your trip goes off without a hitch. If you’re new to travelling, then this may seem like a daunting task. 

I’ve put together the ultimate travel gear reviews for first-time travellers, making sure that you have everything that you need for an unforgettable experience. 

As a seasoned traveller who uses the city ofLondon as a springboard for global adventures, I’ve become well acquainted with the travel gear needed. And here are my top recommendations.   

Browse by Section

Best Camera For Travel

Best Camera For Travel Bloggers

Best Fuji Camera For Travel

Best Mirrorless Cameras For Beginners

Best Lens For Travel

Best Camera Accessories

Best Cute Camera Bags For Women

Best GoPro Accessories

Best Lightweight Travel Tripod

Best SD Memory Cards

Best Luggage For Travel

Best Walking Shoes For City Breaks

Best Portable Power Bank

Packing Lists

Travel Essentials And Accessories

Best Camera For Travel

All that it takes is one trip to realise that a camera is a traveller’s best friend. The nifty piece of technology allows you to capture your moments, and hold on to them for eternity. But which camera is best for you?

What To Look For In A Travel Camera

There are so many different types of cameras available, and it can be difficult to choose the perfect one. 

The perfect travel camera is versatile, compact and easy to use. You’ll want a fast-shooting camera that produces high-quality images without the fuss. In most instances, a mirrorless camera will do the trick. 

What To Look For In A Camera As A Beginner

Going one step further, if you’re a beginner, then there are a few other features to look out for in a travel camera. A small, compact DSLR is a great solution.

A larger sensor will give you better image quality, and great auto-control functions can be an asset when you’re less experienced. 

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Best Camera For Travel Bloggers

As a big Fuji camera fan, I’d recommend the Fuji X-T4 for travel bloggers. The mirrorless camera is lightweight and compact. The auto mode makes shooting on-the-go easy, producing high-quality images for your blog. 

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Best Fuji Camera For Travel

One of the most important features of a travel camera is how compact it is. This doesn’t mean that you need to compromise on its functionality. The Fuji X-T30 is an outstanding choice for travel photography. It is both small and lightweight while also performs incredibly well. 

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Best Mirrorless Cameras For Beginners

As a beginner photographer, you may not want to heavily invest in a camera for travel. The Sony A6400 is a fantastic option as it is portable and budget-friendly. Being quick to focus and small in size makes the Sony A6400 a top choice for beginner photographers on the journey.

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Best Lens For Travel

Once your love for photography grows, you’ll come to discover the variety of shooting options available by using different lenses and camera gadgets. In fact, your choice of lens will have a significant impact on your final shots. 

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A TRAVEL LENS

Once again, size and weight are important when on the road – the lighter and smaller the lens, the better. In addition, versatility is key. Unless you intend on shooting specific shots, then an accommodating lens will give you more opportunity. 

A lens that is slightly wider, and a bit longer will allow you to capture more when on the road. 

BEST TRAVEL LENS FOR YOUR TRAVEL STYLE AND NEED

Ultimately, the travel lens that you pack will depend on what you intend to capture. If you’re on a surfing trip or safari, then you’ll need a reliable zoom lens with the capability to capture detail from a distance.

However, if you’re walking the streets, you’ll want a lens that can capture the day-to-day street life. In this case, a trusty prime lens is all that you’ll need.

BEST TRAVEL LENS FOR BEGINNERS PHOTOGRAPHERS

If you’re a beginner, then a compact and versatile lens will make your life a lot easier. A lens, such as the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens, helps stabilise your shot, is flexible in function and easy to use. 

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Best Camera Accessories

As a beginner photographer, you may not want to heavily invest in a camera for travel. The Sony A6400 is a fantastic option as it is portable and budget-friendly. Being quick to focus and small in size makes the Sony A6400 a top choice for beginner photographers on the journey.

Camerastraps

The lens is not the only camera accessory that can enhance your travel photography. There are plenty of bits and bobs that you can add to the ultimate camera accessory list. Here are two of the most popular. 

PEAK DESIGN CAMERA STRAPS – LEASH

Rushing from one attraction to another becomes a lot slower when you have to pack your camera away each time. A camera strap allows you to comfortably keep your camera around your neck, ready on standby for when you need it. 

As a beginner photographer, you may not want to heavily invest in a camera for travel. The Sony A6400 is a fantastic option as it is portable and budget-friendly. Being quick to focus and small in size makes the Sony A6400 a top choice for beginner photographers on the journey.

BEST CAMERA LENS CASE

A scratched camera lens can really ruin your chance of getting a good picture. One of the most effective ways to make sure that your lens stays protected is with a quality lens case. 

POLAM FOTO 4 PACK

POLAM-FOTO 4 PACK 

A lens can be almost as pricey as the body of a camera, and so it needs to stay protected. The thick neoprene lens pouch set comes in four different sizes and protects the lenses of a variety of makes. The thick plush inside of the Polam-Foto 4-pack provides the perfect protection for your lenses.

PROFOTO.TREND/JJC DLP-4II

If you fall into the adventurous travel category, then the Profoto.Trend/JJC DLP-4III is a fantastic solution for protecting your lens.

The lens pouch is waterproof and has shoulder straps which makes it easy to transport while adding extra protection from the elements. 

BEST CAMERA SCREEN PROTECTORS

Another accessory that can provide a lot of protection to your camera is a screen protector.

These protectors are made specifically for the glass screen of the various camera bodies.  

Glass Screen Protector Compatible with Canon G7X Mark II

GLASS SCREEN PROTECTOR COMPATIBLE WITH CANON

Each camera is made unique, and not all screen protectors will fit all camera bodies. But don’t let this deter you from investing in the tempered glass. 

The Canon screen protector is easy to install and to dry. 

GLASS SCREEN PROTECTOR COMPATIBLE WITH SONY

If you’re a Sony fan, then a touch-friendly screen protector compatible with Sony is a useful investment. They are not expensive and yet can prevent a very pricey mistake (whether it be a scratch from dust or a shattered screen). 

GLASS SCREEN PROTECTOR COMPATIBLE WITH FUJIFILM

This Fujifilm screen protector is compatible with several other brands but perfectly suited for the Fujifilm X-T2, which is one of the best cameras for travel bloggers. 

BEST CAMERA CLEANING KIT

In addition to a lens case, a cleaning kit is another great way to keep your camera in top shape. Whether you expose your camera to beach sand in Ochos Rios or a few dust particles land in the dials while on a hike – a cleaning kit can fix it up. 

Best Camera Mics

Video blogging is becoming increasingly popular. A YouTube channel or video diary adds an extra layer of depth to a narrative, and a camera mic can make this story especially clear. 

RODE VIDEOMICRO COMPACT ON-CAMERA MICROPHONE

The Rode VideoMicro Compact on-camera microphone is portable, making it easy to travel with, and affordable. The lightweight microphone is powered by the camera and produces quality sound despite being one of the most affordable in the Rode’s collection. 

RODE VIDEOMICRO COMPACT ON CAMERA MICROPHONE

SARAMONIC SR-XM1 MINI MICROPHONE 3.5MM

The Saramonic SR-XM1 mini microphone works with a plug-and-play system and is compatible with DSLR cameras, camcorders and other wireless microphone systems. This omnidirectional microphone is best suited for close-range recording.

I use this mic with my GoPro Hero 7, but its also great if you don’t want to use the Rode Mic above or have a small camera and what to go unnoticed.

JOBY WAVO MOBILE COMPACT ON-CAMERA MICROPHONE 

The Joby Wavo Mobile microphone comes with the Rycote Shock Mount which makes it quick and easy to set up. The shock mount helps to absorb movement, helping to achieve a crisp, clear sound. 

COMICA CVM-V30 PRO CAMERA MICROPHONE 

The COMICA CVM-V30 is considered a superior microphone for vlogging, without the hefty price tag. The affordable microphone is a super-cardioid directional condenser shotgun video.

What does this mean? The sound distribution and absorption are great for vlogging, interviews, and video shooting.

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Best Cute Camera Bags For Women

If you’re going to be carrying your camera around from one exciting site to another, then you probably want to look good while doing so. Here are some of the most stylish camera bags for women that will make you want to be in front of the camera as much as you are behind it. 

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RAE NOIR

The Rae Noir camera bag is sleek and chic in design and sports a comfortable shoulder strap that keeps your camera stylishly secured to your body. The twist-lock exists for extra security – and additional design.

CHRISTIE NOIR

This slick, black leather bag is both stylish and trendy. Doubling up as a shoulder bag or backpack, the Christie Noir camera bag is perfect for a DSLR (or mirrorless) camera with lens attached. 

RAE NOIR Gatta Camera Bag

CAMILLE ROSEWOOD

The Camille Rosewood camera bag is a “pretty in pink” limited edition design.

The beautiful bag is effortlessly chic with extra pockets on the inside to help with organisation, and a velvet shoulder strap connected to the leather sling bag. 

Camille Rosewood Gatta

PEAK DESIGN CAMERA BAG

If you’re looking for a functional, expandable camera bag, then the Peak Design everyday backpack could be the perfect solution.

This is perfect if you want to pack a few extra lenses for your day out. 

Roll over image to zoom in Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L

LO & SONS CLAREMONT

These full-grain leather bags come in beautiful neutral tones and are the perfect accessory for a day out.

The crossbody Lo & Sons Claremont camera bag is stylish and designed specifically to fit your camera elegantly. 

CAMERA BACKPACK BY LAAUW X GYPSEA LUST

A camera backpack is comfortable to carry and practical to use. This Laauw X Gypsea Lust camera backpack is not only easy on the eye, but also on the camera.

The bag is complete with a firm bottom to protect your camera and extra compartments for your additional goodies. 

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Best GoPro Accessories

Do you consider yourself an adventure junkie? A GoPro will make sure that you have all of your epic moments documented. Just as digital cameras have useful accessories, so does a GoPro. 

Gopro3waymountwithtripod

GOPRO 3-WAY MOUNT WITH TRIPOD

A GoPro is a fantastic gadget for catching the action. But sometimes, the action is just a little bit too close. This 3-way GoPro mount can be used as a camera grip, an extension arm or tripod. This is a versatile tool that can be an adventurer’s best friend. 

SARAMONIC SR XM1 MINI MICROPHONE 3

MICRO SDXC CARD

What good is a GoPro without a memory card to hold the memories? A 64 GB microdisk (and adapter) is essential for any action camera. The bigger the memory size, the more moments it can capture!

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Best Lightweight Travel Tripod

There are plenty of instances when a tripod can come in handy. Whether you want to set up a self-timer or film a little vlog entry, a tripod can be a godsend. However, they can also add a bit of extra clunk to your luggage. 

Here are a few of the best lightweight tripods that have been designed with travel in mind. 

SmatreeStick

SMATREE STICK

The Smatree telescope selfie stick is compatible with GoPro, certain smartphones, and select cameras. Although lightweight, it can extend to over a meter in length. As an aluminium stick, the gadget is light but durable, and perfect to take with you on your next trip. 

JOBY GORILLAPOD SLR-ZOOM TRIPOD

The Joby Gorillapod is flexible, durable, and easy to carry around. It’s perfect for DSLR or mirrorless cameras. While the adjustable legs can wrap around absurd objects, the ball clips perfectly into the camera’s base, and shoot!

MANFROTTO PIXI EVO 2-SECTION MINI TRIPOD 

This portable tripod offers adjustable legs and angles for mirrorless cameras, compact system cameras, and DSLR cameras. The aluminium Manfrotto PIXI EVO 2-Section mini tripod is compact in size and can support up to 5.5lbs. 

FANTASEAL 8″ FLEXIBLE OCTOPUS 

Another fantastic tripod option for mini action cameras is the Fantaseal flexible octopus. It’s small, compact and incredibly versatile. This is the tripod of choice for plenty of vloggers who want to capture unique perspectives.  

First timeCameraBuyerE28099sAccessories

JOBY GRIPTIGHT PRO TELEPOD

This Joby GripTight PRO Telepod is a step up from your standard tool as it includes a Bluetooth impulse remote shutter and impressive telescoping abilities. Keep in mind that this tripod can only hold up to 2.2lbs. 

JOBY GRIPTIGHT SMARTPHONE TRIPOD STAND KIT

If you’re looking for a small, easy-to-use tripod for your smartphone, then the Joby Smartphone Tripod is fantastic. It does the job without incorporating any of the bells and whistles required by professionals – it includes just a simple locking lever clamp and flexible legs. 

PEAK DESIGN TRIPOD

This Peak Design travel tripod offers pro-stability and can hold up to 20lbs. The carbon fibre build makes it lightweight, and the ergonomic design allows for a quick release, fast locking and adjustable legs. This is a top pick for more serious photographers. 

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Best SD Memory Cards

Imagine planning to spend the whole day out in the city, and after two hours you realise that your memory card is full. You can either rush to delete the “okay” shots to make space, or you’ll have to sacrifice the day’s future memories. This wouldn’t be an issue if you had an extra SD card. 

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BEST SD CARD FOR VIDEO

Two of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing a memory card for shooting video is size and speed. The card needs to have a large memory space to store the footage, as well as the ability to record at high speed. The SanDisk 128 GB Extreme Pro can shoot in 4K and is a good place to start. 

BEST SD CARD FOR PHOTOGRAPHY

SanDisk is a reliable name in the photography game, and so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the SanDisk 64 GB SDXC memory card is my recommended choice for photography. This memory card allows you to shoot up to 90 MB/seconds, with enough space to store your photographs without spending excess money on unnecessary space. 

MEMORY CARD CARRYING CASE 

GoFriend® Water-Resistant 24 Slots Memory Card Carrying Cases Professional Anti-shock Holder Storage SD SDHC SDXC and Micro SD TF Cards Protector Cover with Carabiner.png

A memory card is a tiny disk that holds a large number of memories. It’s magical in a sense. And there’s nothing worse than digging through your luggage for hours to find your photographs from your weekend in Cologne.

A memory card carrying case keeps all of your memory cards safely in one spot so that you don’t lose any of your magical travel moments.

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Best Luggage For Travel

Even minimalists need luggage. If not for the countless souvenirs, then at least for your change of clothes. Picking the perfect luggage can make or break your trip. Ultimately, you want enough space, comfort and convenience.

ChoosingTheBestAntlerLuggageforYou

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CARRY-ON FOR A WEEKEND OR CITY BREAK

Items that you pack for a weekend away are included to make your trip more enjoyable, so the last thing that you want is for your luggage to slow you down. When picking your travel backpack or carry-on for your next trip, there are a few aspects to keep in the front of your mind. 

Size is one of the first aspects to consider. Luggage that fits the airline’s regulations is essential. Another vital factor to consider is comfort and ease of transporting your belongings from each of your locations. 

BEST TRAVEL BACKPACK FOR WEEKEND WARRIORS

If you’re looking for the best luggage for your next weekend away, then you can begin by looking into the Osprey Farpoint 40. It’s considered one of the best travel backpacks on the market; the luggage is comfortable to carry and can hold 40 litres, which is perfect for a couple of nights away.

BEST CARRY-ON FOR CITY BREAKS

I’ve planned countless UK city breaks, and consider myself a pro at getting gear together, and choosing the luggage to use. The Antler Juno II hard shell suitcase comes in a variety of colours and fits perfectly in the cabin. In addition, the wheels and carry handles make it easy to transport the luggage from one spot to the next. 

BEST CARRY-ON BAG FOR YOUR FIRST WEEKEND AWAY

There are several different types of luggage – wheels, totes, backpacks and duffels. The choice can be intimidating for your first trip. It’s wise to invest in a bag that you can see yourself using in the future. 

With this in mind, the Travelpro Platinum Elite-Softside Expandable Spinner is a great choice. The bag is designed to meet the FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage. 

BEST LUGGAGE SET FOR YOUR FIRST INTERNATIONAL TRIP

A longer trip requires a little bit more space. One of the best travel bags for long-haul flights and extended trips is the Travelpro Crew Versapack. The luggage comes in a variety of colours and offers expandable size, with spinner wheel transport for easy rolling. 

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Best Walking Shoes For City Breaks//City Breakers

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There’s little that can ruin your vacation as much as blistered feet that prevent you from exploring. A trusty pair of walking shoes will make sure that you get from point A to B looking trendy and without hurting your feet. 

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WALKING SHOE

A trusty pair of walking shoes is essential for city breaks and adventures. Picking the right footwear will ensure that your trip is filled with memories and laughs rather than blisters and pain. 

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top

Key aspects to consider when looking at buying a shoe is a snug fit, has enough padding, provides breathing, and is versatile in style (because we can still look good while being comfy). 

BEST SHOE FOR ALL DAY WALKING

The Nike Flex Experience Run has a rubber sole, memory foam and breathable fabric, giving your foot complete comfort for a full day of walking. The shoe comes in a variety of neutral colours, ready to match any outfit of choice. 

BEST SHOE FOR WALKING UP HILLS

Nike Flex Experience Run Shoe

When walking on a gradient, there will be a lot of impact inside the shoe. Over time, these small movements can become uncomfortable unless you have a lifestyle sneaker that is both casual and comfortable. 

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top are both stylish and practical – perfect for a day of walking up hills. 

CUTE AND STYLISH WALKING SHOES

When visiting European cities, like Trento in Italy, you’ll want to be as charming and stylish as the city you’re exploring. But this doesn’t mean that you need to compromise on your comfort or your level of trendiness. 

These fashion sneakers from UGG are a great pair of travel shoes that are comfortable, breezy and very cute. 

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Best Portable Power Bank

Portable power bank is useful in more ways than one. Has Google Maps caused your phone battery to run low? Connect it to the power bank! Has your portable speaker died midway through your favourite track? Power bank!

POWER BANKS RAVPOWER 26800MAH

POWER BANKS RAVPOWER 26800MAH 

This RAVPower bank has three ports and serves as a fantastic portable phone charger. It comes in a variety of colours and can charge up to three devices simultaneously, with a total current output of 5.5 A.  

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Packing Lists

In addition to the standard items – such as underwear, a change of clothes and toiletries – there are a few items that you don’t want to forget.

EUROPEAN CITY BREAK PACKING LIST

Depending on whether you travel in summer or winter, here are a handful of extra items to consider when visiting Europe.

Coven Garden Things to do in London

WEEKEND AWAY PACKING LIST

If you’re packing for a relaxing weekend away, then here are a few items to add to your packing list.  

  • A book – to help you get lost in another world
  • Board games – which can create a lot of fun moments when travelling with a group
  • A beautiful dress – the weekend is when the social scene comes alive, and you want to be ready
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UK PACKING LIST

Living in London, I like to think that I’m an expert in the area. With this in mind, here are a couple of must-pack items specific to the UK.

CARIBBEAN PACKING LIST

The tropical paradise has its own unique packing list, so don’t forget these few items when visiting Jamaica and surrounds.

  • Swimming costume – this is essential
  • Sundress or sarong – to throw over your swimming costume when appropriate
  • Water-resistant sunblock – there’s little that can ruin a holiday like being scorched by the sun
  • Bug spray – to keep the mosquitoes away
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Travel Essentials And Accessories

Even if you pride yourself on being a minimalist, a few extra accessories can make your life – and the trip – a lot easier and more comfortable. 

COMPRESSION PACKING CUBES

A pack of different sized packing cubes are useful in keeping your packed items organised and tidy.  

If you don’t want to buy a combination pack, then you can buy single cubes, such as the Peak Design packing cubes that come in different sizes. 

COLLAPSIBLE WATER BOTTLE

Space is king on the road – and so is hydration. This collapsible water bottle is the perfect solution for keeping the thirst at bay while on the road. 

TRAVEL EYE MASK

A travel eye mask can be your best friend when trying to catch up on some sleep during a time when your routine is interrupted. An eye mask comes in handy for blocking out light on the plane, in the hotel and even in the airport.

TRAVEL PILLOW

When you’re exhausted on a bus or plane, then a memory foam neck pillow can quickly become your best friend. A travel pillow allows you to take those opportunities to catch some shut-eye when you need it most.  

WIRELESS SPEAKER (WATERPROOF)

The music that you play on your travels will come to be the soundtrack of your nostalgia.

To help paint the colours of your next trip, a waterproof, wireless speaker is a must-have. This JBL Clip 3 is a nifty travel accessory that offers 10 hours of playtime and wireless streaming.

WIRELESS SPEAKER WATERPROOF

PEAK DESIGN SHOE POUCH

Although it could be considered a nice-to-have, a shoe pouch can be handy in keeping your shoes separate from the rest of your luggage. 

Best Beauty Products For Travel

What good is having the perfect travel camera if you’re not prepared to be in front of it? Here are a few simple, trusty products that will help you feel fresh and beautiful while exploring a new destination.

AQUAPHOR 

Aquaphor healing treatment is one tube of ointment that serves several functions, making it a must-have in your toiletry bag. It’s best used for chapped lips, dry hands, minor burns and cracked heels.

SUNSCREEN FOR TRAVEL

Stay safe from the sun’s harmful UV rays with a travel-size sunscreen. When presented with options, always go for a higher SPF and one that is water and sweat resistant. 

BEST EYE GEL FOR TRAVEL

Walking a new city flat during the day and making the most of the nightlife can leave you feeling quite exhausted. But a tube of eye gel will keep you feeling rejuvenated and looking fresh. 

BEST MAKE-UP REMOVER FOR TRAVEL

Make-up removal wipes are easy to pack and take up little space in your bag. As an added bonus, these wipes can remove dirt and oil from the day’s adventures, as well as make-up. 

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Face Wipes Daily Cleansing Facial Towelettes to Remove Waterproof Makeup and Mascara Alcohol Free

HYDRATING SHEET MASK FOR TRAVEL

Give your skin the care that it deserves on your next trip with a hydrating sheet mask. These are an essential beauty product that will leave your skin feeling hydrated, moisturised and glowing.

Summer And Beach Gear

There are a few extra accessories and gadgets to add to your packing list if you’re planning on a summer trip to the beach. These are a few suggestions to get your mind rolling, but by no means is this an exhaustive list. 

SummerAndBeachGearpackinglist

Winter Gear

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Are you packing for a wintery, cold destination? Here are a few winter-specific items that you may want to consider.

Travel Insurance

Whether you’re a beginner traveller or a seasoned globe trotter, it’s always wise to set off on an adventure hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst. Sorting out travel insurance is a great place to start. World Nomads travel insurance is an insurance option that is customised to the needs of travel. 

READY TO GO

This list of travel gear for beginners should start your trip off on the right foot. The trick to packing the right travel gear is to consider what you need, and how much space you have with you. From here, you can decide what is essential – and what is a luxury. 

Whether you’re an inspiring traveller or looking for the perfect gift for a globetrotter, the items on this list of travel gear are a sure win!  

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