After travelling extensively across the globe, from the remote reaches of Tibet to the wilds of the Yukon, I've learned the hard way that there are three things every traveller should always pack

No matter where you're headed, these items can be the difference between a dream holiday and a nightmare on wheels (or worse, an 8-hour 4x4 ride without a toilet stop)

1. Hand Sanitiser – Your First Line of Defence

Sounds obvious, right? 

But it’s shocking how often people skip it.

Whether you’re handling cash, using the toilet, or grabbing food on the go, clean hands are non-negotiable

I learned this the hard way in Tibet, where our group dutifully washed our hands with bar soap and dried them on a communal towel

The result?

They all came down with a gastro bug, proof that soap and towels can be double agents in germ warfare

Tip: Pack more sanitiser than you think you’ll need

You’ll become the unofficial hygiene hero of your tour group

2. Toilet Roll – Always BYO

Let me keep it simple: never assume there will be toilet paper

Even in “first-world” countries, nature reserves and remote areas don’t stock the stalls

I’ve needed it in Yosemite, California. I’ve needed it in the Yukon

Trust me, if you don’t have it, someone else will ask if they can “borrow” some

Pack generously

3. Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) – The Secret Weapon

Let’s talk about the ultimate gut-saver

Cipro is an antibiotic that actually kills the bacteria causing stomach infections

Unlike over-the-counter meds that just clog you up, Cipro fixes the problem—fast

The catch?

You can’t buy it over the counter in the UK, and most GPs WON'T prescribe it as a “just in case.” 

But you can get it in some countries, like Boots at Bangkok Airport

I was ill in Shimla, India and needed some

BUT, just make sure it’s from a REPUTABLE source to avoid counterfeit meds

Bonus tip: After your course of Cipro, eat yogurt or probiotics to restore your gut’s good bacteria

Conclusion: Don’t Let Poor Prep Ruin Your Trip

You’ve spent time, money, and energy planning your adventure

Don’t let germs, the runs, or a lack of toilet paper bring it crashing down

These three essentials, hand sanitiser, toilet roll, and Cipro, take up almost no space in your bag but can save your entire trip

What’s your non-negotiable travel essential?