10+ Must-Have Items & Tips For A ‘Travel Go Bag’
Are you frequently caught off guard by unexpected travel or emergency situations? Do you find yourself scrambling at the last minute to gather necessary items? If this is the case, it may be time to invest in a travel go bag.
A ‘travel go bag’ is a bag that contains essential items that you would need in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstance that necessitates you leaving your home or traveling somewhere quickly.
A travel go bag is a good idea for everyone because you never know when you might need to leave your home or location quickly, and having a bag with essential items already packed can save you time and help you be prepared in the event of an emergency.
In this article, we’ll go over what you should pack in your travel go bag and why you should have one.
10+ Must-Have Items & Tips For A 'Travel Go Bag'
Why Should You Have A Travel Go Bag
A travel go bag is a bag that contains essential items that you would need in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstance that necessitates you leaving your home or travelling somewhere quickly.
A travel go bag is a good idea for everyone because you never know when you might need to leave your home or location quickly, and having a bag with essential items already packed can save you time and help you be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, clothing, personal hygiene items, and important documents should all be included in a travel go bag, depending on your individual needs and preferences.
There are several reasons why it’s a good idea to have a travel go bag:
- Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere: Natural disasters, accidents, or other emergencies can occur without warning, and having a travel go bag can help you evacuate or relocate quickly and safely.
- It saves time: When you have a travel go bag packed and ready to go, you don’t have to spend time gathering essential items at the last minute. This can be especially important in a high-stress situation.
- It can provide peace of mind: Knowing that you have a travel go bag with essential items can give you peace of mind and a sense of preparedness in the event of an emergency.
- It can help you be self-sufficient: A travel go bag can help you be self-sufficient in the event of an emergency, as it contains items that you may need to sustain yourself until help arrives.
- It can be customized to your individual needs: You can tailor your travel go bag to your specific needs, including items like medication, personal hygiene items, and other items that are important to you.
Overall, a travel go bag is a valuable tool to have in case of an emergency or unforeseen circumstance that requires you to evacuate your home or travel somewhere quickly. It can save you time, provide peace of mind, and help you be self-sufficient.
Have The Right Carryon Bag
Having the correct travel bag is vital no matter what the situation is when it comes to traveling. You want something easy to pack for a Travel Go Bag so you can grab it quickly and get out the door.
In a difficult scenario, checking luggage only adds to the hassle and time. For this reason, I always take a travel backpack with me. They’re quick to pack and grab, as well as carry from point A to point B.
Having the right carryon bag when traveling is important for several reasons:
- It can save you time and money: A carry-on bag that meets the size and weight requirements for carry-on luggage can help you avoid checked bag fees and the risk of lost luggage.
- It can make traveling more convenient: A carry-on bag that is well-organized and has enough space for all of your essentials can make traveling more convenient and stress-free.
- It can provide peace of mind: Knowing that you have all of your important items with you in your carry-on bag can provide peace of mind, especially if you are traveling with valuable items or are worried about lost luggage.
- It can be more secure: Keeping your valuables and important items in your carry-on bag rather than in checked luggage can help you keep better track of them and reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Overall, having the right carry-on bag can save you time and money, make traveling more convenient, provide peace of mind, and be more secure.
Suitcase Vs. Backpack
Deciding between a suitcase and a backpack for your travels can be a tough choice, as both have their own unique set of pros and cons. Here are some things to consider when deciding between a suitcase and a backpack:
Suitcase
Pros:
- Suitcases are typically easier to pack and unpack, as they have a larger opening and more structured interior.
- Suitcases are generally easier to roll, which can be more comfortable and convenient when traveling with a lot of luggage.
- Suitcases tend to be more durable and offer more protection for your belongings.
Cons:
- Suitcases can be less comfortable to carry, especially for long distances or over uneven terrain.
- Suitcases may not be as convenient for accessing your belongings, as you typically have to unpack everything to get to items at the bottom of the suitcase.
Backpack
Pros:
- Backpacks are more comfortable to carry, especially for long distances or over uneven terrain.
- Backpacks are typically more convenient for accessing your belongings, as you can easily reach items at the bottom of the backpack without unpacking everything.
- Backpacks are generally more versatile and can be used for a wider range of activities, such as hiking and camping.
Cons:
- Backpacks can be more difficult to pack and unpack, as they have a smaller opening and less structured interior.
- Backpacks may not offer as much protection for your belongings and can be more prone to wear and tear.
Ultimately, the decision between a suitcase and a backpack will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your trip.
Consider factors such as the length of your trip, the type of transportation you will be using, and the types of activities you will be doing, to help determine which option is best for you.
Related Article: 15 Best Travel Accessories That Will Make Traveling Stress-free
Have Your Essentials Handy
When packing an emergency travel kit, make sure you pack your travel essentials like medications, travel documents(passport or ID), and cash or credit cards first, then proceed with non-essential items.
Electronics
Here are some electronics that you may want to consider packing when traveling in an emergency:
- Phone: A phone can be a crucial tool for communication, navigation, and accessing important information during an emergency. Make sure to bring a charger and an extra battery pack or portable charger to keep it powered.
- Laptop or tablet: A laptop or tablet can be useful for accessing information, staying connected to the internet, and getting work done during your travels.
- Camera: A camera can be helpful for documenting your travels and any events or circumstances that you encounter during an emergency.
- Portable speakers: Portable speakers can be useful for listening to music or other audio during your travels.
- Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight can be essential for illuminating your surroundings in case of a power outage or other emergency.
- Portable power bank: A portable power bank can be a lifesaver for keeping your electronics charged on the go.
- Radio: A portable radio can be useful for staying informed about local news and weather updates during an emergency.
It’s important to consider the specific needs of your trip and choose the electronics that will be most useful in an emergency situation.
Packing Clothing For A Travel Go-Bag
Have a packing organizer handy and place the following travel go bag contents into the bag:
- 1 Pair of Shoes
- 3 Pairs of socks(place the socks into the shoes.)
- 5 Pairs of underwear
- 1 Bra
- 2 Pairs of pants
- 1 Sweater or jacket
- 2 Tops (Short or long sleeve)
- Pajamas
You will likely have to do laundry while you are on the go, so pack some travel laundry soap just in case. If not, you can pick up items on the go.
Related Article: 5 Most Common Problems that Stop You Leaving the Country
Keep Toiletries To The Essentials
In a rush, you will not have time to grab your nightly skincare items, or fancy shampoo and conditioner.
What I suggest is to purchase a toiletry travel bag, and have it in an easy-to-grab area in case travel emergencies happen.
Any Other Items
If you have a little time at home to collect stuff for your Travel Go Bag, then grab a refillable water bottle, hand sanitizer, etc.
The only thing after packing your Travel Go Bag is to grab your keys and wallet and lock your house and go.
The Travel Go-Bag Contents List:
- Medication
- Travel Documents
- Money
- Electronics plus chargers
- Shoes
- 3 pair of socks
- 5 pair of underwear
- Bra
- Pajamas
- Two pair of pants
- 2 tops
- Sweater or jacket
- Travel Toiletry Bag(filled)
- Other items, like a water bottle, soap, more electronics, and headphones
Tips for Booking an Emergency Airfare
The unpleasant reality of today’s travel is that you can’t simply show up at the airport. Airlines oversell all of their flights, making it difficult to even get on standby these days.
Even if you know someone in the airline industry, depending on them to find you a flight at the last minute is impossible. You might want to look into discount booking sites like Kayak or Expedia, since they may be able to provide you with the greatest rates for a last-minute booking.
If none of the above-mentioned booking sites have any available seats, call airlines and explain your position. They can usually accomplish more over the phone than you could if you tried to book directly through their company’s website.
The bad news is that in an emergency, you should expect to pay a little more than usual. If you can delay your flight by a day or two, you may be able to save a significant amount of money.
Booking International Flights
Make sure you’re authorized to enter the country of your destination if you’re flying internationally on short notice.
Many countries throughout the world demand entry visas before allowing visitors to enter.
Furthermore, some nations do not provide automatic visas to visitors, so be sure the country you’re traveling to last minute will issue you one before you book your ticket.
Bereavement Flights
If emergency travel involves death or imminent death, certain airlines may offer you a flight at a reduced cost.
Call the airlines of your choice to see if you qualify, some rules apply, but it’s worth calling.
Here are some tips for booking emergency airfare:
- Act quickly: The sooner you book your flights, the more options you will have and the more likely you will be able to find a reasonable fare.
- Use a travel agent: A travel agent may be able to find you a better deal or offer more flexible cancellation policies.
- Consider alternative airports: Sometimes, flights to smaller or less popular airports can be cheaper. Keep an open mind and consider all of your options.
- Be flexible with your travel dates: If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find lower fares.
- Check for last-minute deals: Airlines sometimes offer discounted fares for flights that are departing soon. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals.
- Use a fare comparison site: Use a fare comparison site like Kayak or Expedia to compare prices and find the best deal.
- Book directly with the airline: Sometimes, booking directly with the airline can save you money and offer more flexible cancellation policies.
- Be prepared to pay a premium: Emergency airfares are often more expensive than regular fares. Be prepared to pay a premium for the convenience and flexibility of booking last minute.
By following these tips, you may be able to find affordable emergency airfare to get you where you need to go.
Travel Medical Insurance
Certain travel insurance companies have options available for you to let you fly to someone.
There are medical insurance plans that include some coverage for trip interruption, so the cost of an unexpected airfare can be reimbursed if you have to travel last minute for a covered reason.
Keep in mind that travel insurance plans only cover you for the risks listed in the description of coverage. So if it’s not in the covered plan, it’s uncovered.
Check out Visitors Coverage for a quote.
Accommodations
If you are stuck in a situation that requires you to book accommodation upon arrival, check the following sites for last-minute deals.
If not, call hotels directly and most of the time they can try to accommodate you for any type of situation you are in.
Summary
In conclusion, a travel go bag is a bag that contains essential items that you would need in case of an emergency or unforeseen circumstance that requires you to evacuate your home or travel somewhere quickly.
It is a good idea for everyone to have a travel go bag because you never know when you might need to leave your home or location quickly, and having a bag with essential items already packed can save you time and help you be prepared in the event of an emergency.
The contents of a travel go bag can vary depending on your individual needs and preferences, but it is generally recommended to include things like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, clothing, personal hygiene items, and important documents.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to prepare – consider packing a travel go bag today and be ready for whatever life throws your way.
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About the author: Trent (IMDB | Youtube) has spent 10+ years working on an assortment of film and television projects. He writes about his experiences to help (and amuse) others. If he’s not working, he’s either traveling, reading or writing about travel/film, or planning travel/film projects.
