Travel: Seven items that belong in your travel ‘survival kit’

Got a holiday planned soon? Wherever you’re off to, it’s always important to be as prepared as possible for anything life throws your way. When you’re packing, there are a few items that may not be high on your list to pack but could save you some misery on your travels.

We spoke to the experts at DUInsure and thought we’d share the items they recommend you include in your travel survival kit.

Use common sense when planning your survival kit

Firstly, the items in your travel survival kit generally depend on where you’re going, what sort of holiday you’re doing and what activities you have planned.

For example, if you’re camping we highly recommend items such as a multi-tool, a large torch and a gas lighter – however, you certainly shouldn’t try and board a plane with any of those items in your luggage as they will be confiscated at security.

It’s important to check the list of items that aren’t allowed in hand luggage when you’re flying as well as checking online for any items that aren’t allowed to be taken into your destination country either.

What you will definitely need

The most important things to take with you are copies of all your travel documents including your passport. If anything gets lost or stolen, you don’t want to be stranded without documents to help you get back home.

Another important part of your travel survival pack should be a small first aid kit. Obviously, if anything significant happens it’s important to see a doctor or go to a hospital (which is where your travel insurance becomes vital) but for small bumps, scrapes, bites or headaches it can be handy to have an array of painkillers, plasters and antiseptic wipes and creams.

Stick a small bottle of hand sanitiser inside your first aid kit to ensure cleaner handling of any injuries. It will also come in handy if you can’t access water to wash your hands.

If you’re intending to go backpacking or on a hiking holiday, important survival items include some energy or protein bars to pop in the bottom of your rucksack. You never know when you might run out of food or just need an energy boost with no café or shop in sight.

Carry a refillable water bottle or flask to ensure you stay hydrated (although always check if the tap water is suitable to drink before you fill up).

Also, don’t underestimate the benefits of having a good book tucked into your rucksack or suitcase. You never know when you might end up delayed or stuck somewhere with nothing to do. Obviously, if you can, explore the local area – but a good (and not particularly heavy) failsafe is having a good book to read. A pack of playing cards also could come in handy.

And finally, an absolute essential is travel insurance – don’t get caught out when you need it most.