Random Items in Our Travel Bag
We like to travel as light as possible but even minimalists like ourselves make the occasional exception. There are a few random items in our travel bag we always bring along, even if it seems a bit odd.
You might look through the list and think "how did THAT make the cut for so-called minimalist travelers". But for us, it's worth the space in our luggage.
We feel each of these accessories are "travel must-haves" that elevate our trip and help amp up an already fantastic vacation. We're at the point where we don't go on a trip without it.
And that's really the whole point of packing like a minimalist when you think about it. It's not about "packing less" but bringing along the items that you need, whatever the reasoning.
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Contents
Charging Block
Let's start the list off with our most "normal" item in our travel bag, a charging block. We learned from our old travel mistakes to never travel without it.
We like to always have a heavy-duty one from RavPower that has 20,000mAh capacity. It might not be the best size for most minimalists but since we travel as a pair it's perfect.
It can charge our phones up to 8 times and our computers as well with both USB and C ports which covers all our charging needs. This battery block has saved the day in countless rental cars and many flights.
Phone Stand
Next on the list is a metal collapsable phone stand. Kelsey had seen a similar version on TikTok where the person used it for their Nintendo Switch.
Initially, the idea was for Phil to use it in a similar fashion but then we both saw how versatile it was while traveling. It folds down to almost nothing which is perfect for minimalist travel.
But the main reason we love it is for our phones. The stand is easily situated on a plane to watch a tv show or make a mini-blogging setup. We also use it to hold our phones for a "touchless" picture or video clip.
This way we can get the perfect shot with both of us. As a travel couple, it seriously changed the game.
Foldable Bag
One year for Christmas, Kelsey's mom bought us these foldable cloth shopping bags. She knew we were trying to be eco-friendly but also wanted it to fit into our tiny travel trailer.
We have now owned them for several years and they are still going strong even with weekly usage. Even if we're not planning on doing any shopping, we always travel with one in our bag.
It takes up such little space and always seems to come in handy. Sometimes we use it for dirty clothes and other times for an impromptu picnic.
Really you never know when a spare bag will come in handy. Plus the bags have a big carrying capacity for such a small foldable object.
Fire Stick
No matter where we're headed, Phil always has our Amazon Fire Stick. It's a streaming device that we can easily set up on most TVs.
We try to stay minimalist with our electronics but this little tool is the exception. It takes up only a small spot in his cord organizer and can have a big impact on our downtime.
When we travel, we make time to get out and explore but we also think having time to relax is crucial for a successful trip. So if we're staying in a rental or even a hotel we can easily set it up on the TV and have all our streaming accounts ready to go.
Rags
Years ago after our cats had a bathroom accident in our trailer, we decided to get a bunch of small little rags. They were only a few bucks and have might be one of our most used items.
They can and are used for just about everything. When packing our bags we toss in a few at the end and call it a day.
Phil mostly uses them for an eco-friendly napkin or to clean up accidental spills. Kelsey likes to have them for a face towel or emergency handkerchief.
Gaming Station
There are two things Phil always has with him while traveling for a mini gaming station. His Nintendo Switch and an HDMI docking station.
The Switch is already perfect for travel since you get videogames in the palm of your hand but the docking station takes it to the next level. It's smaller than a deck of cards and can connect the switch to basically any TV.
It also works as a charger and a stand if there's no tv around. So now we can play games no matter where we're headed.
Self-Care Items
There are two self-care items Kelsey always packs in her travel bag
It probably sounds silly but she swears by it. If we're on a winter adventure both items help keep her warm and cozy.
Even for summer trips, they come in handy. The hair towel helps dry her long hair without pulling. The slippers are more for fun and make any trip feel more luxurious.
What's a Random Item in your Travel Bag
Some of our items might seem random but we swear by them. We never hit the road without them and they help us enjoy every vacation to the fullest.
What are some random travel necessities you love and always keep with you? Leave us a comment and we will see if we can add to our random items in our travel bag!
