As a frequent traveller, and with travel seeing a strong resurgence, I’ve learned what the essentials are for your coveted carry-on baggage.

Whether I go across the country or across city limits, here are the six must-have items I pack to keep me organized, connected and comfortable.

Passport Case

Since my initial trip to Cancun, Mexico in my early teens, I’ve used a passport case as it’s a wonderful way to organize your travel documents. The best ones have ample space and pockets for my passport, airline ticket, boarding pass, cash, and zippers to keep everything protected.

Portable USB Battery Charger

My portable USB battery charger keeps my phone charged and the handy LED display shows me its progress. On a recent trip to Louisiana, it came in handy as a colleague’s phone was almost out of power so, of course, I lent it to her. When we returned, she purchased the exact same charger I have. Walled power sources can sometimes be elusive, so it’s always good to be prepared.

Toiletry Bag

Being organized is paramount for a successful trip, and a smart way to keep your bath and shower supplies in order is via a rollout toiletry bag. The one I have has a handy metal hook so I can hang it on the shower curtain or back of the door, and maximize counter space. The leather and waxed canvas make it water resistant, so everything inside is well protected.

Headphones

I like to watch movies on my iPad during a flight, so having a good pair of headphones is essential. There are several types of headphones. I prefer a good set of noise-cancelling Bluetooth over-the-ear headphones like the Beats Solo 3 Wireless Headphones. These bad boys have theatre-like sound for such a compact design.

Messenger Style Laptop Bag

Having a nice modern bag for my laptop is essential, but it has to fit more than just my laptop. The Spencer Grey & Tan Laptop Bag from Trendhim is both good-looking and quite practical. It has plenty of room to carry my laptop, battery charger, cables, headphones, power strip, and any other tech item I may need while travelling.

Surge Protector Power Strip

It never fails - you get to your hotel room and there aren't enough USB outlets to plug into. It’s why I always travel with a compact Surge Protector Power Strip. It doubles as an extension cord and a power strip, with both DC and USB connections. Very handy when you need to charge a few devices simultaneously.

No matter where you're going or what you're doing, having the right gear can make all the difference. Happy travelling!

Craig Silva is the founder/editor of bigdaddykreativ.ca, a travel and lifestyle publication. He is a 40-something suburban dad who likes to travel to warm destinations and have family Rock Band nights! He is a member of the Travel Media Association of Canada and has visited many cool destinations.