37 Best Travel Essentials For Remote Workers + Digital Nomads [2024 Guide + Packing List]

If you’re a remote worker or digital nomad, chances are you’re looking for the best travel essentials to take advantage of your ability to work from anywhere in 2024 and beyond.

Whether you choose to drive, fly, or both, it’s important to be prepared with the right suitcase, tech gear, and accessories wherever you plan on working remotely.

That’s why I put together a list of the best travel essentials for remote workers from my decade-plus remote career that I never leave home without.

This includes everything from bags and backpacks to what I pack inside, including clothes, accessories, and electronics like laptops, tablets, and keyboards.

You’ll also discover my preferred brands of essential travel audio/video equipment like cameras and mics, as well as digital + tech products like VPNs, task management tools, remote Wi-Fi service, and my favorite memory foam pillow for those long work trips that turn into a vacation.

Last but not least, we’ll talk about some of the most essential travel clothes for remote workers (even underwear, cuz they actually make better kinds for travel) to pack in their suitcases.

So if you’re planning to hit the road in 2024 or sooner, this post will help you remember to bring all the essentials you need for traveling successfully as a remote worker, so that you don’t forget anything crucial and you feel as comfortable and prepared as possible when you’re on the road.

Let’s get ready for takeoff!

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What are the best travel essentials for working remotely from anywhere in 2024?

As a freelance travel writer and destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the unique opportunity to travel around the world for a multitude of creative work experiences.

From my work trips to places like Turkey, China, and Ireland on assignment, I know how tough it is to remember what to pack and feel comfortable when fighting through serious jetlag.

So, before you dive into my choices and why I recommend them, this is a quick rundown of all the travel essentials we’ll cover — think of it like your handy new remote work travel packing list:

Packing list of travel essentials for remote work

1. Your Passport (+ Copy of Passport & ID + Extra Photo)
2. Bags and Backpacks
3. Carry-On Luggage
4. Lightweight Laptop
5. Tablet
6. Wireless Keyboard & Mouse
7. External Laptop Battery
8. All-Purpose Charging Hub
9. Laptop Stand
10. Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earbuds
11. External Hard Drive
12. Portable Monitor
13. Portable Speakers
14. Portable Ring Light
15. DSLR Camera
16. Microphone
17. Power Cords
18. Surge Protector
19. International Travel Adapter
20. Remote WiFi (MiFi)
21. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
22. Task Management Software
23. Sweatshirt/Hoodie
24. Pants
25. Underwear
26. Compression Socks / Tights
27. Comfortable Walking Shoes
28. Raincoat
29. Travel Umbrella
30. Memory Foam Travel Pillow
31. Toiletries Kit + First Aid
32. Travel Insurance
33. Disinfecting Wipes
34. Sunscreen
35. Travel Underwear
36. Water Bottle
37. Tech Pouch

Now, let’s get into our specific recommendation for each of these remote work travel essentials.

1. Your Passport (+ Copy of Passport & ID + Extra Photo)

This one goes without saying, but make sure you have your passport on you at all times when traveling internationally! I also recommend making copies of your passport and ID, as well as keeping an extra photo of yourself on hand in case you lose any of these documents while on the road.

If you’re working remotely from within the United States, however, a passport is not required — but I still recommend bringing a form of government-issued ID like a driver’s license or state ID card.

Need to renew your passport or apply for your first passport? Visit usa.gov/passport to get started and learn more.

PRO TIP: Get TSA Precheck ($85 application fee for 5 years) or Global Entry ($100 one-time fee) to save time going through security at the airport. Trust me, it’s worth every penny it if you travel often!

Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s move on to the next travel essential for remote workers…bags, backpacks, and carry-on luggage!

2. Travel Bag and Travel Backpack

When it comes to travel bags and backpacks, there are a million different options out there — but as a remote worker, you’ll want to make sure you shop for something that’s comfortable to wear, has enough space for packing all your essentials, and won’t break the bank.

Personally, I like to travel with a backpack as my personal item and typically bring my travel clothes in a separate carry-on bag.

I can usually store my backpack under the seat in front of me on any flight without a problem, and I can put it on top of my carry-on and wheel it most of the way, so I don’t have to worry about lugging a heavy bag around with me everywhere I go.

When it comes to choosing the perfect backpack for travel, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Size: Make sure you buy one small enough to be considered a carry-on” size bag by most airlines (this is usually 22″ x 14″ x 9″) and isn’t so big it breaks your back.
• Weight: Buy one that’s light enough to carry around with you all day, but also sturdy enough to protect your belongings on a bumpy flight.
• Storage Capacity: Look for one with multiple compartments and pockets, so you can easily organize everything you need to bring with you.

Some of our favorite travel backpacks for remote workers include:

• Osprey Farpoint 40
• Tumi Alpha 3 Brief Pack
• Breakwater Supply 100% Waterproof Submersible Backpack

3. Carry-On Luggage

In addition to a backpack (or two), you’ll also want to buy some carry-on luggage for your longer trips. After all, there’s only so much you can fit into a backpack.

When choosing carry-on luggage, the three most important factors to consider are size, weight, and durability.

You’ll want to make sure your luggage is small enough to fit in the overhead bin of an airplane (most airlines have size restrictions of 22″ x 14″ x), light enough that you won’t get tired carrying it around, and durable enough to withstand being tossed around by baggage handlers.

My favorite carry-on luggage for remote work is what I personally own: The Carry-On Plus from Monos, which is super sleek, not heavy at all, and comes with great wheels for hard airport floors. I will say that it doesn’t roll very well on carpet or rugs, so in some hotels, it has been a literal drag.

I also like The Bigger Carry-On from AWAY. I once did consulting and SEO content creation for them and got to go to their office and check out their whole line of luggage — good stuff! Sometimes they have limited edition luggage in remarkable colors, so if you’re looking for something eye-catching, check out their site.

Optional Add-On: Packing Cubes

If you’re looking for a way to maximize space and keep your travel bag organized, packing cubes are a great option.

Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that you can use to compartmentalize your belongings — and they make packing and unpacking a breeze.

We recommend eBags Light 5-Piece Packing Cubes Set or the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Packing Cubes Set (which includes four different-sized packing cubes).

4. Lightweight Laptop

These days, it’s pretty much impossible to do any sort of work remotely without a laptop. And if you’re going to be traveling with your laptop, you’ll want to make sure it’s easy to carry around with you.

When choosing a travel laptop, the three most important factors to consider are weight, battery life, and portability. You’ll want to make sure your laptop is light enough to carry around with you all day (ideally under four pounds), has a long battery life (so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet every few hours), and is small enough to easily fit into your backpack or carry-on bag.

For traveling creatives and people who prefer Apple products, I recommend the MacBook Pro. Available with a 13-inch, 14-inch, or 16-inch screen, it’s lightweight and super fast, making it perfect for work tasks like video editing, photo editing, and web design.

If you’re on a budget, the MacBook Air is another awesome option because it’s even more lightweight, and it has a long-lasting battery. The Air is also a bit more affordable than the Pro, so if you don’t need as much memory or power, this could be the better option.

For PC users, there is a wide range of options, but I recommend the Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 360. It’s one of the lightest laptops on the market and it also has an incredibly long-lasting battery, so you can work all day without having to worry about running out of juice.

5. Tablet

While a laptop is essential for remote work, a tablet can also be a handy tool to have while you’re traveling. A tablet is great for light web browsing, reading books or articles, watching movies or TV shows, and even getting some work done in places you don’t want to schlep your laptop, like the beach (if you invest in a good Bluetooth keyboard).

When choosing a tablet, the three most important factors to consider are weight, battery life, and screen size.

You’ll want to make sure your tablet is light enough to carry around with you all day (ideally under two pounds), has a long battery life (so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet every few hours), and has a large enough screen that you won’t feel like you’re squinting all the time.

Some of our favorite travel tablets for remote workers include the iPad Pro, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, the Microsoft Surface Pro, and the Amazon Fire Tablet.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget to pack a good case, pouch, or cover for your tablet to protect it from scratches, bumps, and drops.

6. Wireless Keyboard & Mouse

If you’re going to be doing any serious work on your laptop while you’re traveling, you’ll want to invest in a good wireless keyboard and mouse. A wireless keyboard and mouse will make working on your laptop much more comfortable, especially if you don’t have a lot of space to work with.

When choosing a wireless keyboard and mouse, the three most important factors to consider are compatibility, battery, and portability.

You’ll want to make sure your keyboard and mouse are compatible with your laptop (most keyboards and mice these days use Bluetooth), have a long battery life (so you don’t have to worry about recharging them all the time), and are small enough to easily pack into your backpack or carry-on bag.

I recommend choosing from the many Logitech Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Sets because they’re so well-made and varied depending on your needs, and they work with almost any computer. Plus, you won’t have to worry about tangled wires, and their mice options are very comfortable to use.

Mac users should grab the Apple Wireless Keyboard and Magic Mouse because they’re both Apple quality and work seamlessly with Mac products.

PRO TIP: If you’re going to be using your laptop for long periods of time, invest in a good laptop stand to make working more comfortable.

7. External Laptop Battery

An external laptop battery is great for those times when you can’t find an outlet to plug into, or when you need a little extra boost to get through a long day of work.

When choosing an external laptop battery, the three most important factors to consider are capacity, portability, and compatibility. You’ll want to make sure your battery has enough capacity to fully charge your laptop (most batteries these days range from 10000mAh to 15000mAh), is small and light enough to easily pack in your backpack or carry-on bag, and is compatible with your particular laptop model.

Some of our favorite external laptop batteries for remote workers include the Anker PowerCore 10000 and the Baseus Laptop Power Bank.

8. All-Purpose Charging Hub

If you’re going to be traveling with multiple devices, you’ll want to make sure you have a good all-purpose charging hub. A charging hub is ideal for those times when you need to charge multiple devices at the same time (like your laptop, tablet, and phone).

When choosing a charging hub, the three most important factors to consider are portability, compatibility, and the number of ports. You’ll want to make sure your charger is small and light enough to easily pack, is compatible with all the devices you’re trying to charge (most chargers these days use USB-C or micro-USB), and has enough ports to charge all your devices at the same time (ideally four or more).

We like the Anker 313 Wireless Charger Pad because of its universal compatibility and the ability to charge devices through protective cases.

PRO TIP: If you’re going to be traveling with a lot of devices, invest in a good carry-on bag or backpack with built-in charging capabilities.

9. Laptop Stand

If you’re going to be using your laptop for long periods of time, you’ll want to invest in a good laptop stand for working remotely.

A laptop stand is great for those times when you need to use your laptop on an uneven surface (like a bed or a couch), or when you need to prop up your screen so you can see it better.

When choosing a laptop stand, the three most important factors to consider are portability, stability, and adjustability. You’ll want to make sure your stand is small and light enough to easily pack in your backpack or carry-on bag, is stable enough to keep your laptop from tipping over, and is adjustable so you can find the perfect angle for working.

If you travel often and find yourself working on hotel beds, I recommend the Nearpow Laptop Bed Tray Table because it folds flat, making it perfect for slipping into my suitcase, and it adjusts to five different height levels and angles.

There are different widths available, so make sure the laptop stand you choose can fit inside your suitcase.

This laptop stand is also a solid bed tray for food, but you may not want to risk getting ramen on your laptop.

10. Noise-Cancelling Headphones or Earbuds

If you’re going to be working in public places, you’ll want to make sure you have a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds. After all, you can’t control other people’s volume.

Noise-cancelling headphones are ideal for those times when you need to focus on your work and tune out the rest of the world, especially if you’re old school and can’t get down with easy-to-lose ear buds.

They’re absolute travel essentials for remote workers who find themselves working in noisy cafes or outdoor spaces, on a flight with crying babies, or anywhere else you encounter other people’s screams.

If you want to be able to concentrate better, we recommend the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones because they’re exceptionally comfortable, wireless, and have adjustable EQ settings. Plus, they come with Bose’s proprietary acoustic technology that blows away the competition.

If you’re looking for more affordable headphones, we recommend Sony’s WH-CH710N Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones. They’re not as special as the Bose QuietComfort 45, but they’re still a great pair of noise-canceling headphones at a more affordable price. If you get these instead of the Bose, then you can also scoop up a pair of ear headphones and still potentially spend less.

PRO TIP: If you’re going to be using your headphones in different places (like a coffee shop, an airport, or a hotel room), shop for a good case or pouch to protect them from

11. External Hard Drive

If you’re going to be working with large files or storing sensitive data, you’ll want to make sure you have a good external hard drive or flash drive. An external hard drive is vital gear for those times when you need extra storage space or need to back up your work.

When choosing an external hard drive, the three most important factors to consider are capacity, speed, and security.

You’ll want to make sure your hard drive has enough storage space for all your files (most hard drives these days have at least 500 GB of storage), is fast enough to transfer files quickly (look for a hard drive with a USB-C or Thunderbolt connection), and is secure enough to protect your data from being lost or stolen (encrypted hard drives are the best option).

We like the Western Digital My Passport Ultra because it’s built strong, works fast, and it has a ton of storage options (1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 5TB).

My partner and I use these external hard drives to back up images from our luxury destination weddings, and they’ve never disappointed us.

If you’re looking for more storage, we recommend the Seagate Expansion Desktop external hard drives. These offer an array of options from 4TB up to 20TB, perfect for professionals dealing with massive file sizes.

PRO TIP: If you’re going to be using your external hard drive in different places (like a coffee shop, an airport, or a hotel room), invest in a good case or sleeve to protect it from scratches and other damage.

12. Portable Monitor

If you work remotely in certain fields, you may require an external monitor to double your screen capacity while working.

When choosing a portable monitor, the three most important factors to consider are size, resolution, and portability. You’ll want to make sure your monitor is small enough to easily pack in your backpack or carry-on bag, has a high enough resolution to see your work clearly, and is lightweight and easy to set up and take down.

I recommend picking up something from SideTrak, makers of attachable external monitors that double (or triple) your screen real estate.

Available in regular or touchscreen with 12.5-inch, 14-inch, or 15.6-inch HD or 4K screens, and with freestanding, swivel, and slide options, you’re bound to find something that works best for your essential remote work travel setup.

PRO TIP: If you’re going to be using your portable monitor in different places (like a coffee shop, an airport, or a hotel room), invest in a good case or sleeve to protect it from scratches and other damage.

13. Portable Bluetooth Speakers

If you want to be able to listen to music or podcasts wirelessly while traveling for remote work, we recommend getting a portable Bluetooth speaker.

When choosing portable speakers, the three most important factors to consider are sound quality, portability, and battery life. You’ll want to make sure your speakers have good sound quality so you can still hear your work audio clearly, are small enough to easily pack in your backpack or carry-on bag, and have enough battery life to last through a full day of work (most batteries these days last around 20 hours).

We like the Bose SoundLink Mini II Bluetooth speaker because of its sleek design, durable construction, and booming bass.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, we recommend the Anker SoundCore. It’s not as well-made as the Bose SoundLink Mini II, but it’s still a great Bluetooth speaker with enhanced bass and it’s more affordable.

14. Portable Light

If you’re putting together travel essentials for working remote in a job that requires lots of face time and videoconferencing meetings, you might want to invest in a handy portable light. Portable lights are also vital for those times when you need extra light to see your work at night or want to make videos for remote work.

When choosing a portable light, the three most important factors to consider are brightness, portability, and battery life. You’ll want to make sure it’s bright enough to properly illuminate your work area, is small enough to easily fit in your suitcase or bag, and has enough battery life to last through a full day of work (most batteries these days last around 20 hours).

We recommend the Key Light Mini from Elgato for its portability, durability, wireless controls, and sleek design. It features a 2900–7000 K color range, covering sunset amber through arctic blue, an 800-lumen output that’s fully dimmable, and a battery that can handle up to 4 hours at 50% brightness. You can attach it to your smartphone or hook it up to a retractable stand if you prefer.

We also use the ring light from Elgato as one of our work-from-home office essentials.

15. DSLR Camera

When choosing a DSLR camera, the three most important factors to consider are image quality, portability, and price. You’ll want to make sure your camera takes high-quality photos, is small enough to easily pack in your backpack or carry-on bag, and is affordable for your budget.

For our luxury destination wedding photography company, my partner and I use a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR camera, and we highly recommend the older Canon EOS 5D Mark III model as a backup.

We also use and recommend the smaller Sony a7 iii mirrorless camera, since it has a lightweight body, takes stellar stills, and is generally easy to carry and transport than the bulkier Canon cameras.

16. Microphone

If you’ll be doing any type of videoconferencing, podcasting, or audio recording while working remotely, you’ll want to make sure you have a good microphone among your travel essentials.

A quality microphone will help ensure that your audio is clear and crisp, making it easier for people to understand you during meetings or on calls.

There are two main types of microphones: USB microphones and XLR microphones. USB microphones are typically less expensive and easier to use, while XLR microphones offer better sound quality but require more setup.

We recommend the Shure SM7B because of its unmatched sound quality for the price, as well as its portability. We own an SM7B and use it for recording guitar, vocals, voicework, and sound for videos, and we find it easy to transport with us on trips.

We also own and recommend the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone. It’s a totally different kind of mic than the Shure SM7B, and it’s also a bit smaller and lighter in weight. It’s much more affordable to buy than the SM7B, so you may be able to save a few hundred bucks by getting the Audio-Technica mic if you don’t care about sound nuance.

17. Power Cords

If you’re working remotely, you’re going to need power cords to keep your devices charged. Make sure you have the correct cords for all of your devices, as well as a few extras in case you lose one or it gets damaged.

We recommend the Anker PowerLine+ II Lightning Cable, which is one of the most durable and dependable charging cables we’ve ever used. It’s also MFi-certified (Made for iPhone), so you know it’s been tested and approved by Apple.

If you have a MacBook Pro, you’ll need a Thunderbolt cable to connect it to external displays and other devices. We recommend the Belkin Thunderbolt Cable, which is available in a variety of lengths to suit your setup.

18. Surge Protector

A surge protector is a must-have if you’re working remotely, as it will protect your devices from power surges and spikes. We recommend the Anker Power Strip Surge Protector, which includes 12 outlets, as well as one USB C and two USB A ports for charging devices.

If you’re working with sensitive electronics like audio equipment or cameras, we also recommend the Tripp Lite ISOBAR6Ultra Surge Protector. This will help to protect your devices from line noise, which can cause audio distortion or interference.

19. International Power Adapters

If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct travel adapter for the countries you’ll be visiting. We recommend the Skross World Travel Adapter Pro, which is a universal adapter that will work in more than 150 countries.

20. Remote WiFi (MiFi)

If you’re going to be working remotely, you’ll want to make sure you have a good remote WiFi connection.

There are two main ways to get remote WiFi: through your cellphone data plan or through a separate MiFi device.

If you have a good cellphone data plan with plenty of data, then using your phone as a hotspot for your laptop will probably be the best and most convenient option for you. However, if you don’t have an unlimited data plan, or if you find yourself in places with spotty cell service, then you may want to invest in a separate MiFi device.

A MiFi is basically a small portable router that creates its own WiFi network wherever it goes. This can be a lifesaver if you’re working in a coffee shop with bad WiFi or in a hotel with spotty cell service.

My favorite MiFi devices for remote work include the Inseego 5G MiFi M2000 and the Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L.

The downside of MiFis is that they can be expensive (usually around $100-$200), and they require an ongoing monthly data plan (usually around $30-$60 per month).

The upside is that they’re relatively easy to use and they can save you a lot of headaches if you’re trying to work remotely in places with bad or nonexistent WiFi.

21. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

If you’re working remotely, chances are you’ll need to access some sort of corporate network or private server.

For example, you may need to access your company’s internal website or intranet, or you may need to connect to your work computer from home.

In these cases, you’ll want to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to create a secure connection between your computer and the remote network.

VPNs are relatively easy to set up and use, and they can be a lifesaver if you’re trying to work remotely and need to access a private network.

I personally use and highly recommend NordVPN because it’s easy to use, has a wide variety of server locations, and is relatively affordable (plans start at $3.09 per month).

22. Task Management Software

If you’re working remotely, chances are you’ll need some sort of task management software to stay organized and on top of your work.

There are a lot of different task management software programs out there, but our two favorites for remote workers are Asana and Trello.

Asana is great for larger teams who need to track tasks and projects across multiple people and departments. It’s also great for managing deadlines and due dates.

Trello is a more visual task management software that’s great for individual workers or small teams. Its kanban board-style UI is easy to use and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Both Asana and Trello offer free plans for individuals and small teams, so you can try them out to see which one works better for you.

23. Sweatshirt/Hoodie

A good sweatshirt or hoodie is an essential buy for any remote worker.

Why? Because you never know when you’re going to be working in a cold hotel room, on a long flight, or in a coffee shop with the air conditioning cranked up.

A good travel sweatshirt should be warm, comfortable, and easy to pack. We like the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Hooded Jacket because it’s all of those things. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles for both men and women.

24. Comfortable Pants

If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of sitting. And when you’re doing a lot of sitting, comfort is key. That’s why we recommend packing a pair or two of comfortable pants that you can wear while working.

Our favorites include the Lululemon ABC pants (for men) and the Athleta Chaturanga leggings (for women). Both of these pants are extremely comfortable, they have a flattering fit, and they come in a variety of colors and styles.

25. Coat or Jacket

If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of traveling. And when you’re doing a lot of traveling, it’s important to buy a good coat or jacket that will keep you warm and dry no matter where you go.

Our favorites include the Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket (for men) and the North Face Resolve Parka (for women). Both of these coats are made with waterproof materials, they have a comfortable fit, and they come in a variety of colors and styles.

26. Compression Socks / Tights

If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of sitting, including in cramped airplane seats. And when you’re doing a lot of sitting, it’s important to wear compression socks or tights to help improve circulation and prevent blood clots.

Our favorites include the CEP Compression Socks (for men) and the Zensah Compression Tights (for women). Both of these products are made with high-quality materials, they provide great compression, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes.

27. Comfortable Walking Shoes

When you’re working remotely, you never know when you’re going to have to run out to a meeting or go for a walk to clear your head. That’s why it’s important to buy a pair of comfortable shoes that you can wear both inside and outside.

We like the Allbirds Tree Runners because they’re made with sustainable materials, they’re extremely comfortable, and they look good with everything. Currently, the price of one pair is $105.

For women, we also like the Rothy’s flats. They’re shoes made from recycled materials (like plastic bottles), they fold up small so you can easily pack them in your bag, and they come in a dozens of colors and styles, so you’re bound to find something you like. The price is $129 as of this writing.

28. Raincoat

If you’re working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of traveling. And when you travel, there’s always the potential for rain. That’s why it’s important to pack a good travel raincoat.

Our favorites include the Columbia Watertight II Jacket (for men) and the Marmot PreCip Jacket (for women). Both of these jackets are made with waterproof materials, they have a comfortable fit, and they come in a variety of colors and styles.

29. Travel Umbrella

A good travel umbrella is crucial for any remote worker. Why? Because you never know when you’re going to be caught in a rainstorm or stuck in the sweltering sun, and you might need to cover yourself so your gear doesn’t get ruined.

My favorite travel umbrella is the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella. It’s made with durable materials, it has a comfortable grip, and it comes in a variety of colors at an affordable price.

Looking for an umbrella to use at home? Check out my umbrella review for BuzzFeed.

30. Travel Pillow

If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of traveling. And when you travel, it’s important to have a good travel pillow that will help you stay comfortable on long flights or car rides.

Travel pillows come in a variety of shapes and styles, and my favorite pillow is the Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow. It’s made with soft materials, it has a contoured design, and it comes with a carrying case for easy storage.

I also like the Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow from Cushion Lab to help avoid neck strain on flights for work or vacation, especially those long international ones. Its memory foam is extra cushy, making any airplane seat feel more like a hug instead of, well, an airplane seat. Plus, the pillow’s ultra-compact, collapsible design makes it easy to fit into any suitcase.

31. Toiletries Kit + First Aid

When you’re working remotely, it’s important to be prepared for anything. That’s why we recommend packing a travel toiletries kit and a first aid kit.

Your toiletries kit should include all of your essential toiletries, like toothpaste, a toothbrush, floss, deodorant or antiperspirant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, etc.

Your first aid kit should include items like band-aids, gauze pads, medical tape, antiseptic wipes or cream, pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), etc.

You can score a sophisticated toiletry bag from AWAY for packing your toiletries in your suitcase and snag all your health and hygiene supplies at your nearby supermarket or Target. Or, scoop up this convenient package of travel toiletries from Amazon that includes everything you need to throw into your luggage for biz trips.

32. Travel Insurance

If you’re working remotely, chances are you’ll be doing a lot of travel. And when you travel, it’s always a good idea to buy travel insurance just in case something goes wrong, such as your suitcase getting lost, you becoming sick, or getting any injuries.

There are a lot of different travel insurance plans out there, but our two favorites are World Nomads and Allianz Global Assistance.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

World Nomads is great for long-term travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants comprehensive coverage. Plans are affordable and cover just about everything you’ll need for exciting adventure trips.

Allianz Global Assistance is a good option for budget travelers or anyone who wants basic coverage. Plans start at $33 per trip.

No matter which plan you choose, make sure to read the fine print and understand what’s covered before you buy.

33. Disinfecting Wipes

It’s always a good idea to have disinfecting wipes as part of your travel essentials to clean surfaces like your hotel room desk, the armrests around your airplane seat, or the tray table on a train.

We like Clorox Disinfecting Wipes because they’re affordable, they come in a convenient travel-sized pack, and they’re effective at killing 99.99% of bacteria and viruses.

34. Sunscreen

If you’re working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of traveling. And when you travel, there’s always the potential for sun exposure. That’s why it’s important to pack sunscreen.

We like La Roche Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen because it was recommended to me by my dermatologist (along with their Lipikar lotion, Toleriane cleaner, and all their serums). Compared to other higher-quality skincare products, the price is affordable. Plus, it’s made with natural ingredients, it has a high SPF of 50, and it comes in a convenient travel-sized tube.

35. Travel Underwear

If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of traveling. And when you’re doing a lot of traveling, it’s important to have good travel underwear that will keep you comfortable no matter where you go.

Our favorites include the ExOfficio Give-N-Go boxer briefs (for men) and the Lululemon UnderEase Bikini Briefs (for women). Both of these products are made with high-quality materials, they’re extremely comfortable, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes.

36. Water Bottle

One of my least favorite things about traveling for work is that I don’t drink nearly as much water as I do at home, even when I bring my bottle.

Without my at-home PUR reservoir to constantly refill my and my partner’s water bottles, I rarely remember to get my daily dose of H2O on the road.

To help offset dehydration, I recommend bringing your own personal water bottle as part of your travel essentials. Pick up this pair of Pogo water bottles from Target that my partner and I always travel with, whether we’re on a trip for wedding photography or copywriting at the beach. I usually pick up a gallon of purified water from the supermarket and use it to fill our bottles before busting out of our hotel.

37. Tech Pouch

Staying organized while traveling for remote work is essential, so it’s smart to keep a small pouch for your cords, cables, chargers, and other small-but-vital tech supplies.

We recommend the Classic Pouch from Bellroy thanks to its mesh inner pockets for easy organization, its cutty side pocket with magnetic closure, and its 6 vibrant colors choices, including my personal fave, Ranger Green. It’s backed by Bellroy’s three-year warranty, which helps justify the $49 price.

The best travel essentials for remote workers working on the road in 2024: Wrapping it up

So there you have it!

I hope you found this list of travel essentials for remote workers in 2024 helpful and that you’ll put the travel packing checklist to good use.

With the essential remote work travel items on this list, you’ll be able to thrive while working remotely wherever your assignments, ambition, and curiosity take you.

Do you have any essential items that you always travel with? Let the community know in the comments, and keep loving that sweet remote work lifestyle!