Preparing for an international trip can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time traveling abroad. When I travel to Japan, I try to pack light but make sure I have a few essential items that make getting around the city easier and more comfortable. Here are a few travel essentials I’ll be bringing with me this summer.
US to Japan Adapter – $17
Japan uses a different electrical outlet than the United States, so you may need a plug adapter to charge some of your devices. Outlets can also be limited in places like hotels or cafes, which can be challenging if you’re trying to charge multiple devices at once. If you have any chargers with a three-prong plug, you’ll definitely need an adapter like the one above. It’s a small and inexpensive item, but it ensures you’ll be able to keep your phone, laptop, and other devices powered throughout the trip.
Portable Charger – $20
I really like this one because you don’t have to bring additional cords to charge your mobile device on the go. Having a portable charger is key as you’re traveling around the city and working on social media assignments, writing, editing videos, or navigating with Google Maps. We’ll be out exploring for long stretches of time, so being able to recharge your phone while you’re on the move is incredibly helpful.
Lightweight Rain Jacket – $24
Since it will be the rainy season in Japan, I’d recommend bringing a lightweight rain jacket or even a poncho for the rainy days. Summer showers can pop up unexpectedly, and having something light that you can easily fold into your backpack will make exploring the city much more comfortable.
Passport and Credit Card Holder – $10
When traveling internationally, you’ll need to keep track of important documents like your passport and credit cards. A passport holder or travel wallet keeps everything organized and in one place, which makes it easier when moving through airports, checking into hotels, or going through immigration. It also helps prevent you from constantly digging through your bag looking for your passport when you need it.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
They don’t have to be Brooks—most people already have their go-to comfortable pair of shoes, so be sure to pack whatever works best for you. One thing students often underestimate when traveling to Japan is just how much walking we’ll be doing each day. Between exploring neighborhoods, visiting temples, navigating train stations, and filming content for assignments, it’s very common to walk 15,000–25,000 steps in a day. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes that you’ve already broken in. This is definitely not the trip to test out a brand-new pair for the first time.
You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Japan, especially while exploring cities. Staying hydrated is important, but carrying a large water bottle can take up valuable space in your bag. A collapsible water bottle is great because it’s lightweight, easy to pack, and can be refilled throughout the day. Many train stations and convenience stores also sell inexpensive bottled water if you need a quick refill.
Coin Pouch – $7
Japan still uses a lot of coins for everyday purchases, and you’ll quickly notice how often you receive change when buying things from convenience stores, vending machines, train stations, and small shops. Having a small coin pouch makes it much easier to keep track of your change instead of letting it pile up in your pockets or bag.
Small Backpack/Day Bag – $27
A small backpack or day bag will make exploring the city much easier. You’ll want something comfortable that can hold your daily essentials like your camera, portable charger, water bottle, rain jacket, and any souvenirs you pick up along the way. Since we’ll be moving around the city frequently, having a lightweight bag you can carry all day is really helpful.
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