Best Travel Accessories from a 10-Year Solo Traveler
What are the best travel accessories that actually matter? After a decade of solo travel across 40+ countries, I've learned this: the gear that lasts isn't always the most expensive or the trendiest. It's the stuff you forget you're carrying until you need it—and then you're grateful it's there.
I've tested countless backpacks, dealt with broken zippers, and bought "game-changing" gadgets that turned out useless. But some pieces have stuck with me. My Backpackbeat 7705 has been my constant companion for three years now—from rainy London streets to dusty trails in Patagonia.
Here's what's actually stayed in my pack, trip after trip, and why these travel accessories became non-negotiables.
The Backpack That's Been Everywhere With Me
I've owned multiple travel backpacks over the years—some lasted six months, others fell apart after one rainy season. The Backpackbeat 7705 is different. Three years in, and it's still my first choice for everything from weekend city trips to week-long hikes.
Why it works for long-term travel:
26L capacity means I can pack for a week without checking bags. Not too big that I'm tempted to overpack, not too small that I'm constantly doing laundry.
Water-repellent fabric has saved me more times than I can count. Sudden downpours in Edinburgh, humid jungle treks in Costa Rica—my laptop stayed dry every time.
Laptop compartment fits up to 16 inches. As someone who works remotely between trips, this matters. Padded protection means I'm not paranoid every time I toss my bag down.
Four external pockets are my favorite feature. Quick access to passport at immigration, water bottle while cycling, snacks during long train rides—I'm not digging through the main compartment constantly.
The 7705 isn't my only backpack, but it's the one I grab first. For daily use, short trips, and anything where I need to move fast through cities, this is it. (Want to see exactly how I pack it? Check out my complete packing system here.)
9 Travel Accessories That Changed How I Travel
A good backpack is just the start. These are the best travel accessories I've found after ten years on the road—the items that solve real problems you don't realize you need until you're stuck on an overnight bus or scrambling through airport security.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
This is one of the best travel accessories for long flights. Noise-canceling headphones completely transformed my experience on planes and in noisy hostel dorms. Engine hum disappears, snoring roommates fade out. I use them on every trip—sometimes just for the silence, not even for music.
20,000mAh Power Bank
I stopped worrying about battery life the day I bought this. Taking too many photos? Using GPS all day? Doesn't matter. A 20,000mAh power bank charges my phone 4-5 times. It's one of those best travel accessories you'll use every single day. On long travel days—trains, layovers, overnight buses—it's a lifesaver.
Hidden Travel Belt for Passport and Cash
One of the best travel accessories for security I've ever bought. This belt sits flat against your body, invisible under clothing. I keep my passport, emergency cash, and a backup card inside. Rotate the bulky part toward your back, and it disappears completely. No more paranoia in crowded metros.
Waterproof Phone Case
As a solo traveler, this gives me freedom I didn't have before. I keep my phone and cash inside, and I can swim without worry. Canyoneering, kayaking, beach days—my phone stays dry and functional. No more sitting on the shore watching everyone else have fun.
All-in-One Passport Wallet
This is a thin wallet where one side holds my passport, the other side stores cash and cards. It's slim enough to fit inside my hidden travel belt, which means everything critical stays in one place. No more digging through my backpack at airport check-in or fumbling with multiple pouches.
Padded Eye Mask for Flights
A comfortable, padded eye mask helps me actually sleep on planes. Block out the cabin lights, tune out your surroundings, and suddenly that red-eye flight becomes bearable. I've tested cheap ones—they slip off or press too hard. A good padded one makes all the difference.
Lightweight Rain Poncho
Rain ponchos don't take up space, but they cover both you and your backpack. I've been caught in unexpected downpours more times than I can count—sudden storms in Scotland, tropical rain in Southeast Asia. A poncho keeps everything dry without adding bulk to my pack.
180cm Tripod for Solo Travel
As a solo traveler, I hate asking strangers to take my photo. This tripod is the same height as a person, making it one of the best travel accessories for solo travelers who want natural-looking photos. When I need a better angle for landscape shots, I extend it fully and suddenly I'm shooting from 3.5 meters high. It's like having a drone without the hassle.
Pre-Packed Toiletry Bag with Duplicates
Keep your toiletry bag packed at all times with duplicate items—toothbrush, travel-sized shampoo, razor, everything. You're not repacking every week. Just grab and go. This one habit saves more time and stress than any other travel essential on this list.
Travel Efficiency Tips I Wish I Knew Earlier
Beyond gear, there are a few habits that make travel smoother. These took me years to figure out.
Apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
If you haven't done this yet, do it. It drastically cuts down security wait times. No more stress about missing flights or standing in hour-long lines. The application takes about 5 minutes online, then a quick 10-minute in-person appointment for fingerprints. Learn how to apply on the TSA website. The fee pays for itself after two trips.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for a Different Hotel Room
If your room is too noisy, faces a loud street, or just feels off—ask to switch. Especially if you haven't touched anything yet, most hotels will accommodate you. I spent too many years suffering through bad rooms because I thought I couldn't ask.
Use Empty Lip Balm Tubes for Skincare Products
I learned this from a Reddit thread on cool travel gadgets. Fill unused lip balm tubes with face cleanser, moisturizer, or serums. They're way smaller than typical travel containers, and I use skincare slowly anyway. Perfect for ultralight packing.
The best travel accessories aren't about having the most gear—they're about carrying less and worrying less. After ten years on the road, these are the items that earned their place in my pack. They solve real problems, save real time, and make solo travel feel less stressful.
The Backpackbeat 7705 has been my constant for three years now, and it's still going strong. If you're looking for a backpack that works for both city commutes and weekend adventures, this is it.
