10 Eco-Travel Essentials

Two professional travelers share their picks for adventure vacation essentials.

Originally published January, 2007

By Natalie Bahadur

Who doesn’t love to travel? Whether you’re taking a low-key family vacation or an action packed excursion to someplace exotic, travel is the fuel that motivates many people to pack up their bags and get the heck out of Dodge. And if you’re an adrenaline-junkie, who seeks out adventure travel in exotic destinations, then the thrill can be even more acute.

But before you get caught up in a whirlwind of excitement about the excellent outdoor adventure that awaits you, take some time to prepare carefully for your trip. John DiScala is a professional traveler and founder/editor-in-chief of johnnyjet.com -- one of the most comprehensive travel resources online – so we checked in with him and one of his contributing writers Carly Blatt, to find out what travel essentials you mustn’t leave home without, before embarking on your next adventure vacation. Here’s what they suggested:

1. A sturdy backpack
Invest in a good backpack. Not only will this leave your hands free, but it will also be much easier to carry around than a suitcase. A backpack or rucksack that has no structured frame is easier for storage (if your travel itinerary has you hopping from buses to trains), and will be more comfortable to carry on your back.

2. A first-aid kit
You can never be too prepared when it comes to an emergency situation. For peace of mind, keep a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand at all times. What should you bring along? The basics include, but of course are not limited to: pain relievers, antibiotics, antihistamines, eye drops, disinfectant, alcohol wipes, adhesive bandages, decongestants, tweezers, insect repellent, antacids and any prescription medications that you may need.

3. GSM cell phone
DiScala recommends bringing along a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) cell phone on your next adventure vacation. “They will work in practically any country in the world and if you get a local SIM card, the rates can be ridiculously cheap, including free incoming calls in many countries no matter where they are originating from,” he says. However, if you’re traveling to a really remote destination, he recommends considering a satellite phone. “They are bulky and expensive but they could save your life if you get into trouble.”