Travel Accessories to Pack for Your Next Adventure

No matter whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveller, having the right accessories can make a world of difference to your travel experience. In this guide, we’ll have a look at some of the must-haves you need to make your next trip easy and stress-free.

Bum bag: Everything at your fingertips

The bum bag is our top travel essential, and for good reason. It's an incredibly convenient way to carry just about any smaller items when you’re on the go. Think passport, tickets, phone, wallet, sunglasses, keys and more.

Worn around the waist or across the body, it keeps your hands free and your belongings safe. Available in just about every colour, you can keep yours muted and understated to blend in with the rest of your outfit. Or, choose a bright hue for a statement look.

Wash bag: Making mornings and evenings easy

A wash bag, or toiletry bag, is essential for keeping your washes, lotions, toothpaste and other care items neatly organised while you’re travelling. Whether you're going on a weekend getaway or a month-long expedition, a good wash bag will make finding those early-morning essentials a breeze. 

To keep things compact, invest in some travel-size versions of your favourite products. Or decant into reusable plastic bottles and tubs to save space.

Travel wallet: Keeping everything together

A travel wallet is a few sizes up from a regular wallet and is designed to hold not just your money and cards but also documents like boarding passes and hotel reservations. Having all your critical items in one place can be a great way to save time and stress, especially during airport check-ins and border crossings.

Passport holder: Protect your most important travel document

Your passport is just about your most valuable item when travelling internationally. A passport holder not only protects your passport from wear and tear but also keeps it easily accessible, too. 

Many passport holders come with additional compartments for things like credit cards and emergency contact information, making it a handy travel hold-all.

Gearbox: Great for the gadget lovers

The gearbox is a must-have if you’re big on gadgets. A handy organiser where you can store items like your camera, headphones, and various charging cables, it offers protection and keeps you from losing smaller items in the depths of your bag. Say goodbye to that missing pair of earphones or flash drives.

Rain bag cover: Always expect the unexpected

A rain bag cover is a travel must-have, especially if unpredictable weather awaits. It's simply a  lightweight cover that shields your backpack or suitcase from unexpected downpours. It's particularly useful for outdoor activities like hiking or camping but can be a lifesaver whenever you’re travelling.

Staying connected: Top tech tools

Staying connected and powered up while you’re travelling is key, but sometimes a little tricky. This is why items such as universal travel adapters, portable Wi-Fi devices, and solar-powered chargers are great travel accessories for any trip.

A universal travel adapter lets you charge your devices no matter where you are in the world. Some are country-specific, while others offer a range of regional compatibility. Portable Wi-Fi devices meanwhile offer a secure internet connection, especially useful in areas with poor cellular service. Finally, solar-powered chargers are great if you’ll be spending long periods away from power sources. 

Thoughtful gifts and travel accessories for men and women

Know someone who’s headed off on an upcoming trip? The right travel accessory makes a great gift – and one they’ll likely use over and over. 

When it comes to travel accessories for women, things like a stylish scarf can double as a blanket during a chilly flight. Or a compact jewellery organiser can help keep valuables safe and untangled. 

Travel accessories for men meanwhile tend to be big on practicality and handiness. Items like a sturdy leather belt with a hidden zip for storing cash or a multi-tool are great choices.

Smart packing: Make the most of the space you have

When it comes to travel, space comes at a premium (and sometimes a considerable extra cost). But using some easy space-saving techniques can make all the difference to getting that luggage zipper closed.

Compression bags, for instance, are a game-changer for travellers looking to maximise space. They squeeze the air out of bulky items like clothes and towels, for a thinner, easier-to-pack profile.

Additionally, organising your belongings into categories and using packing cubes can help keep your suitcase neat - even if you’re living out of it for days at a time.

First aid kit: Because accidents happen

Health and safety should always be a top priority while travelling. This is why packing a well-stocked first-aid kit is essential – especially if you're venturing off to remote or inaccessible areas.

Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze and pain relievers should all be included in your kit, as well as any personal medications. It’s also wise to carry hand sanitiser, a reusable water bottle with a filter, and a small flashlight.

Your greatest adventure awaits

No matter where you’re headed, or how you’re getting there, having the right travel accessories can make the journey that much better. At The North Face, we’ve got a range of handy accessories for every adventure, plus bum bags, messengers and totes, and a range of other men’s, women’s and kids’ gear. So no matter where the journey takes you, we’ve got you covered.