Top 10 Travel Essentials for Minimalists

My Philosophy

I’ve traveled to many countries, and each trip teaches me something new about myself and what I truly need. I’m not the type to bring a bunch of stuff to a new place—I always try to reduce the weight and the baggage. When I travel, I want to arrive—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. For me, traveling is about focusing on ideas and experiences, not dragging the remnants of my old life with me. After years of refining how I travel, I’ve narrowed it down to a simple set of things I always bring—my essentials. These items help me stay mobile, light, and ready to expand once I reach my destination.

Here are my Top 10 Travel Essentials for Minimalists:

1. Laptop & Charger

I currently use a MacBook Air M2—hands down one of the most versatile laptops I’ve owned. You can easily get away with an M1 or even a well-optimized Intel Mac if you’re on a budget. But if you want to future-proof your gear, go for the newer M-series models.

Your laptop becomes your external brain as a digital nomad. It lets you send documents, draft ideas, manage money, communicate professionally, and even charge your phone in emergencies. My MacBook has saved me countless times—printing visa docs at the airport, handling client calls from hostels, or editing content in a café overseas. Invest in a reliable laptop and it will pay you back tenfold.

2. Phone & Charger

The phone is the remote control for urban life. In today’s world, especially in smart cities like Tokyo, Shanghai, or New York, having a fast, dependable smartphone is non-negotiable. You’ll use it to register for services, navigate public transit, pay for food, and network on the fly.

I recommend at least an iPhone 11 Pro or newer. iPhones retain value, have solid battery life, and sync beautifully with laptops. But do your research—some Androids and rugged phones like the Unihertz Titan are great if durability is your priority. Just make sure it’s fast, has a strong battery, and won’t fail you in a crunch.

3. First Aid Kit & Toiletries

Yes, you’ll bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant—but don’t forget sanitizing wipes, flushable wipes, and a compact first aid kit. Trust me, when you get a minor cut, stub your toe, or catch a cold from jet lag, you’ll be grateful you brought some meds and band-aids. Don’t underestimate the power of your own mini medicine cabinet abroad.

4. Daily Backpack

Separate from checked luggage, your daily backpack is mission-critical. It should have compartments for your laptop, documents, and smaller tech. Look for vertical space, water resistance, and hidden zippers for your passport or cash.

Good bags make a difference—you can turn any airport seat, coffee shop, or hostel into a functioning mini-office. I’ll go deeper into this in a future article.

5. Clothing with Utility

Clothing is your armor, especially when you’re networking, taking meetings, or exploring unknown terrain. I’m a fan of smart-casual pieces like blazers and dress shirts, but when traveling to tropical or humid places, your clothing needs to perform.

Look for fabrics that are:

• Sweat and odor resistant

• Moisture-wicking

• Wrinkle-resistant

• Lightweight and fast-drying

Think of it like “wearable tech.” These clothes help you transition from a 10-hour flight to a quick workout to an informal client meeting—all in the same outfit.

6. Supplements & Vitamins

Not every country stocks your preferred supplements, and hunting for them can be a hassle. Bringing a supply of daily vitamins, protein powder, or any essential meds will help you stay consistent with your health goals while buying you time to find local replacements.

7. Travel Towel

A minimalist super tool. Use it to dry off after a shower, as an eye mask on the plane, a neck pillow in a pinch, or to clean up messes when wipes run out. It dries fast, folds tiny, and helps you start your day with some comfort no matter where you are.

8. Coconut Oil

This one might surprise you. Coconut oil is my go-to all-purpose product—moisturizer, hair product, mouthwash (oil pulling), or even a light cooking aid. It solidifies when cold and melts in heat, making it versatile and easy to carry. I use it mainly for face and hands, saving me the trouble of packing multiple lotions.

9. Wireless Headphones

A must-have for airports, gyms, hostels, and long-haul flights. I currently use lightweight Bluetooth headphones from Havit—affordable, great sound, long battery life. Whether it’s music, podcasts, or calls, headphones bring calm and focus to chaotic environments.

10. Crossbody Bag

Your quick-access, on-body security zone. Perfect for carrying:

• Passport

• Cash

• Phone

• Keys

• Travel docs

It keeps your essentials close and secure, whether you’re on a packed subway in Seoul or navigating a busy airport in Berlin. I recommend a flat, RFID-blocking design that you can easily hide under a jacket or hoodie.

Final Thoughts:

Traveling light doesn’t mean going without—it means choosing what matters most. These 10 items have helped me stay mobile, professional, and comfortable while allowing me to adapt and grow wherever I land. If you're looking to build your own High Score Life, these essentials will help you get there faster, lighter, and smarter.