Travel tips: Packing your personal bag

When travelling on a long-haul trip, some things and items are necessary to make your travel, holiday, or work fun and adventurous.

Sanitiser wipes: Most surfaces of aeroplanes, rail cabins, or PSVs are covered with germs and are breeding grounds of germs, an environment that is easy to catch illnesses such as colds. Include wipes that you can always use to sanitise surfaces such as your seat and surrounding areas. Wipes too, come in handy to freshen up your face and occasionally use them to sanitise your hands.

Reusable water bottle: Dehydration is the number one culprit in long-distance travel. It is recommended that you include a collapsible and foldable water bottle in your list. The bottle will not take up much space and packs easily. Another advantage of the reusable bottle is that it saves you money by refilling the water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Snacks: Avoid heavy foods and instead indulge in packing your light snacks like nut mix, cheese, crackers, and fruits that are low in carbs and high in protein. Do not forget to pack gum, which helps with bad breath especially after snacking. It also helps to relieve ear pressure while taking off and landing.

Skincare: Include a mini-toiletry bag in the list of your bag. In the mini bag pack items that will keep your skin moisturised, and your body and hair healthy, a toothbrush, natural deodorants, and a hand sanitiser. Do not forget to include medicine (first aid).

Eye mask: Eye masks help create a more relaxing environment for sleep. Travel experts say they are a good jet lag remedy, as sleeping in darkness makes you better rested. Make sure to pick a pair that does not apply pressure around your head. It is recommended that you always carry an extra pair in case you sit next to a baby or a snoring traveller.

Headphones: Though most airlines provide free standard headphones, they can become uncomfortable when worn for long hours. Make sure you pack your headphones that you know will be comfortable for watching shows and movies - those that can help block out noise when you want to take a nap.

Back-up power charger: Even if you charge all your devices before your travel, there is still a probability that they will most likely die or will have low buttery by the time you get to your destination. Although most aeroplanes, trains, and PSVs have power outlets, this is never a guarantee and as a traveller, you will want to ensure that you are in touch with devices. Carrying a power bank charge gives you that guarantee.

Neck or travel pillow: One of the ways that will give ease of travel by ensuring your comfort is the use of a neck or travel pillow. A good travel pillow should offer you unparalleled head and neck support for easy sleep. Even though the travel pillow is sometimes cumbersome to carry, the comfort is worth it.