The Most Indispensable Travel Companion: A Guide to Choosing the Right Gear

 The Most Indispensable Travel Companion: A Guide to Choosing the Right Gear

The Importance of Choosing the Right Travel Gear

As someone who has traveled extensively, I know firsthand how important it is to have the right gear when you're on the go. Whether you're headed out for a long weekend or embarking on a round-the-world trip, having the right equipment can make all the difference in the world.

When you don't have the right gear, what was supposed to be a fun travel experience can turn into a nightmare.  Worse yet, when the conditions are harsh and turn extreme, having the right travel gear can be the difference between life and death, so spend the necessary time to make sure you have what you need.  You want to focus on your trip and enjoy it rather than frantically scrambling around trying to make accommodations to get something (if you can even find it when you're on the road!) you didn't bring.

Here are the main things you want to think about when you're planning your next outing and choosing the right travel gear to get you where you're going and to bring you safely back home!

• Durability and reliability
• Portability and ease of use
• Multi-functional capabilities
• Personal preference and individual need

What Traits to Look for in Choosing the Best Travel Gear

Let's delve into each of these factors a bit further, so you know what to look for in the best travel gear.

Durability and reliability: When you're traveling, you need gear that can withstand the rigors of the road. Whether you're dealing with bumpy planes, trains, and automobiles (no pun intended!), or harsh weather conditions, you need gear that can hold up. Consider purchasing gear made from high-quality materials that will last you a long time (spend a little extra here and go with time tested brands as it will go a long way!), and look for gear with warranties or guarantees. For example, a high-quality, hardshell luggage with a sturdy frame and smooth-rolling wheels will provide reliable protection for your belongings, as well as ease of movement through airports and other transportation hubs.  Any piece of luggage will seemingly work great your first time out, but you want travel gear that will hold up with repeated use - especially luggage where it will get thrown around as it travels with you (or somewhere near you!) during your trip. 

Portability and ease of use: Travel can be hectic, so you want gear that's easy to carry and use on the go. Look for items that are compact and lightweight, and that won't take up too much space in your luggage.  Layer your clothing too, so you can be prepared for the cold, but have the ability to peel off some outer layers if the weather warms up.  You also want gear that's easy to set up and use, especially if you're in a new place and you're not familiar with the surroundings. An example of a highly portable item is a foldable, compact backpack that can be packed away when not in use.  It's functional and comes in handy for countless uses (even as an umbrella in a quick pinch if you get caught out in the rain).

Multi-functional capabilities: The more versatile your gear, the more useful it will be on your travels and the more situations it will be of functional use to you. Look for items that serve multiple purposes, like a camera that can also take video, or a power bank that can also be used as a flashlight. Doing this will save you space and weight, and help you simplify your travels - more space for the things you need and less weight to lug around. For example, a multi-tool, such as a Swiss Army knife, can be used for a variety of tasks, from opening a bottle of water to cutting through tough materials.  As another example, I use my iPhone rather than taking a second camera with me - it shoots great pictures, takes great videos, does all that I need, and does it extremely well!

Personal preference and individual needs: Ultimately, the most useful item for traveling will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what you'll be doing on your trip, and what kind of gear will be most useful for your specific situation. For example, if you're going on a backpacking trip, a lightweight and compact sleeping bag might be more important to you than a high-end camera. Without question, a lightweight, packable jacket that is easy to layer for varying weather conditions is ideal for someone who travels frequently to different climates.  Most of this comes down to thinking in advance about what you're going to be doing and then imagining situations, weather conditions, really any circumstance that could arise to ensure that you've planned your travel gear to account for the "what if".  You're not going to be able to check off every box (you can't take your home with you!), but you need to check off enough boxes and make sure they're the right ones so you can have a good time traveling!

The Best Travel Gear Really Comes Down to What You Need

Again, the key to choosing the most useful item for traveling is to consider your individual needs, personal preferences, and the specific demands of your trip.  It's that simple.  If you take the time to plan and think about where you might find yourself you'll be better prepared when you get there.

Whether you're looking for a durable and reliable camera, a portable and easy-to-use power bank to charge your electronic devices, or have the need for a multi-functional piece of gear, taking the time to choose the right item will make all the difference in the world in how much fun you have traveling, so don't short circuit the process.  Happy travels!