10 Easy Items to Pack That Will Save You Money on Your Trip

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Traveling can get expensive no matter how short your trip is. Between flights, hotel rooms, sightseeing, food, and drinks, things can quickly add up. One easy way to save money while traveling is to set an attainable budget and stick to it. Using credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees, looking out for deals, and keeping track of your daily expenses are all easy ways to stay on budget while traveling.

Another way budget-conscious travelers can save money is by packing strategically. By traveling with only a carry-on bag, you can save hundreds of dollars in baggage fees. And packing the right travel gear inside your carry-on can help you cut costs as well.

Whether it’s bringing your own snacks to avoid expensive airport food or packing a subway map to prevent spending money on taxis, there are certain items that you should always have stashed in your luggage to help make your trip much more cost-effective. And the more money you save, the more money you have to spend souvenirs, sightseeing, or even your next getaway.

From a collapsible water bottle to a digital luggage scale, keep reading to see the cost-cutting (and stress-reducing) items you should pack for your next trip.

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Collapsible Water Bottle

Courtesy of Amazon

Staying hydrated while traveling is key, but buying bottled water can quickly add up. Instead, pack a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day. We like this option by Hydaway because it is collapsible and folds down to be only one-inch tall, making it super easy to pack.

To buy: amazon.com, $22

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Luggage Scale

Courtesy of Walmart

Even the most affordable flight can become costly when unexpected luggage fees are involved. Avoid having to pay for overweight bags at check-in by packing a handy luggage scale. This digital option by Etekcity should give you an accurate reading every time you use it.

To buy: walmart.com, $12

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Tablet

Courtesy of Amazon

Don’t waste money on paperback or hardcover books at the airport every time. This lightweight and portable Amazon Fire HD Tablet can hold hundreds of ebooks and digital magazines at once. You can also download movies, TV shows, and podcasts to the device to stay entertained throughout your trip. Plus, it will take up much less space in your bag.

To buy: amazon.com, $150

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Universal Power Adapter

Courtesy of Walmart

If you’re traveling to a different country, invest in a universal power adapter to ensure you’ll never have to buy extra chargers. We like this compact option because you can plug up to four USB cords in at once. It is also compatible with over 150 countries’ sockets, including U.S., U.K., Australia, and EU plugs.

To buy: walmart.com, $15

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Travel Umbrella

Courtesy of Amazon

Don’t let an unexpected rainy day sneak up on you again. Keeping a portable travel umbrella packed in your bag at all times will help you avoid having to run out and spend money on a new umbrella or poncho while traveling. This lightweight Fidus option is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and comes in 17 stylish colors and prints.

To buy: amazon.com, $17

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Solid Sunscreen

Courtesy of Amazon

If you’re headed somewhere with a warm climate, packing sunscreen is a must. If you are only traveling with a carry-on, you will be limited to a three-ounce bottle which, depending on the length of your trip, might not be enough. Avoid buying sunblock at the hotel gift shop or airport (where it is typically much more expensive) and instead pack a few sticks of solid sunblock to last through your trip.

To buy: amazon.com, $8

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Stain Stick

Courtesy of Walmart

Let’s face it, stains happen. Avoid spending money on dry cleaning and laundry services while traveling by packing a stain stick. These handy Tide To Go pens help eliminate food and drink stains on the spot. Plus, they are so small you can easily keep one in every travel bag you have.

To buy: walmart.com, $7

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Snacks

Courtesy of Amazon

Another easy way to save money is to pack your own snacks. Not only is airport food notoriously expensive, but stopping for quick bites while walking through a new city can also add up fast. These healthy Clif Bars are made with a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber that will give you enough energy to get through a busy day of sightseeing.

To buy: amazon.com, $31

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Reusable Baggies

Courtesy of Amazon

Reusable baggies are another great cost-cutting item to pack while traveling. Not only will they stop any liquids from leaking on the rest of your stuff, but you can also use them to pack snacks like fresh fruits and veggies for day trips. The best part? They are super easy to clean and can be reused on all your upcoming trips.

To buy: amazon.com, $15

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Public Transit Map

Courtesy of Amazon

Using public transportation will not only help you save money while traveling, but it also allows you to see a new city like the locals do. Unless you’re paying for an international plan on your phone, you’ll want to avoid using Google Maps (or download ahead of time). Be sure to bring a paper public transit map with you so you’ll never get lost or waste money on a taxi again.

To buy: amazon.com, $10

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10 Easy Items to Pack That Will Save You Money on Your Trip