Gearing Up for...

Transport

Airplane

Trains and buses

Be very careful with your luggage on both trains and buses (and travel light), especially as soon as you arrive at the stations. For the security of your bags, especially on trains, consider bringing a chain and padlock to secure your luggage at night or when you're away.

To block out noise and light, which can stay on constantly, earplugs and a sleep mask (like the ones sometimes given on planes) can be useful. A small lamp can also come in handy. For long journeys, bring reading material, music, movies, and snacks. And don’t forget a small alarm clock to avoid missing a nighttime stop.

Finally, even if you're traveling in sleeper cars, don’t always expect a pillow and blankets depending on the country, so plan accordingly. Also, bring a light layer—on both trains and buses—to combat air conditioning or the cool night air, or for high-altitude stretches.

Bike

Motorcycle

Car and camper van

Staying in budget hotels

Unless you’re only staying in higher-end establishments or sticking to Europe/North America (and even then), it’s useful—if not necessary—to bring a few small items to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Padlock

A must-have, the padlock lets you lock your room door when it doesn’t have a key (as is still sometimes the case in small hotels in Asia or Latin America). Even if the hotel provides one, using your own can give you extra peace of mind. Opt for a combination model to avoid losing the key and to make things easier if you’re sharing a room.

Bedding extras

Highly recommended: a blanket, a sleep sack, or a lightweight, compact sleeping bag (under 15 € in supermarkets). Besides keeping you warm, it avoids contact with questionable bedding—especially since some places don’t always provide sheets or blankets (same goes for train sleeper cars). In some areas, a small impregnated mosquito net (and mosquito repellent) can round out your gear.

Small essentials

Practical items to remember: a travel alarm clock, candles, and/or a headlamp for when there’s no electricity (or it’s out). To mask unpleasant odors, bring incense sticks; for noise, earplugs; and if you’re sensitive to light, a sleep mask like the ones sometimes given on planes. Smokers should pack a small ashtray.

Less optional: toilet paper and a water bottle for nighttime thirst. Also, a good insect repellent is always useful. Finally, plastic flip-flops can come in handy for accessing the bathroom or toilet.

On a cruise

Among the two or three things not to forget on a cruise, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Also, bring a light layer no matter the destination—on a boat, the speed lowers the air temperature by 10 to 15°C. And don’t forget the ever-present air conditioning on many ships (especially U.S. ones), which can turn some into veritable floating freezers.

On many cruise ships, you’ll also need to pack a slightly "dressy" outfit, traditionally required for dinners and gala evenings.

All-inclusive resorts

Hiking of all kinds

Treks and day hikes

• See the article in the "Treks and Hiking" guide

Gear and equipment for hiking or trekking, whether for short trips or multi-day adventures.

In the mountains

Horseback riding

Camel treks

For multi-day trips—otherwise, for a few hours, all you need is water and good sun protection. For longer journeys, travel light (and smart) by bringing only the essentials, all packed in soft duffel bags or frameless backpacks to secure them better to the animals’ saddles.