Top 10 holiday items you never knew you needed...until now!

Your summer holiday may be only days away, but that suitcase isn’t going to pack itself! If you find packing particularly stressful, worry not, because the GP team is here to help.

Make a list, check it twice…

The key to stress-free stowing is to write a list before opening up your suitcase. There are endless checklists on the web you can print off telling you to pack sun cream, guide books and flip-flops – so we’ve put together some of those less obvious items that may not be on those lists, but are definitely worth including:

1. Secrid wallet and card protector

Enjoying a city break? If so, these nifty mini wallets are practical, lightweight and will protect against the fraudulent use of your cards via NFC, leaving you to soak in the sights safe in the knowledge your belongings are protected.

2. Swim accessories

Be the envy of fellow holidaymakers and up your swimming game with this smart IntexMesh Mat, a lightweight and compact lilo that will keep you cool in the sea or pool. If you’re a keen snorkeler, you might want to upgrade your current kit with this full-face mask, which will give you 180-degree views underwater. And just to be on the safe side, we recommend this AQUAPAC waterproof case to shield your tech against any splashes.

3. Heavyweight and portable PowerBanks

You’re bound to be taking a lot of tech on your travels, so you’ll need something to charge it with – after all, you don’t want to be tied to a plug socket on holiday! The GP 3C15A PowerBank is perfect for the job, thanks to its dual charging ports and speedy charging time. Whether you need to boost your phone by the pool, or your camera ahead of the evening’s entertainment, this PowerBank makes it possible.

Avid explorers? If so, this 1C02A PowerBank will be your ultimate companion on your adventures (for more on how to add a dose of adventure to your hols, read our article here). It’s ultra lightweight and compact, meaning it won’t take up much room in your rucksack, and is perfect for day excursions. It’ll boost your smartphone when you’re snapping those landmarks (take a look at our handy infographic on how to take amazing pictures with your phone) or finding where the best bar is to kick back and watch the world go by.

4. Mavic Pro Drone

One step up (and if you have some extra cash to splash) is the DJI MavicPro Drone. Capture holiday footage like never before by launching the Mavic into the sky – once up there, it will link with your iOS or Android device to capture stunning clips in 4K, with a flight time of up to 23 minutes and an impressive 4.3 mile range.

5. GoPro

 There’s no doubt that GoPros are the most versatile cameras out there, and really are a must-have if your holidays are packed with adventure. Take them underwater (waterproof case required for some models), surf with them fixed to your body, or mountain bike with them attached to your helmet. No matter how extreme your endeavours are, a GoPro will always rise to the challenge.

6. Charge AnyWay

Portable fan, torch, shaver...all these holiday essentials need batteries. So, why not make a greener choice and save money by making the switch to rechargeables? You won’t need to buy another battery ever again (or not for a long time, anyway), and you can boost them using the GP Charge AnyWay. In fact, the Charge AnyWay is the ultimate travel companion as it’s lithium-free, meaning it can be packed in your carry-on bag and in your hold luggage. And did we mention that it doubles up as a USB charger?

7. Copies of important docs

You already know to travel with important documents – travel insurance, European Health Insurance Card accommodation details, passport photocopies and visas, if necessary. But our advice is to double up on docs, storing one copy each in your holdall and carry-on luggage. That way, in the unlucky event your suitcase is misplaced, you’ll have a backup.

Speaking of important information, don’t forget to write a list of emergency contacts – including your hotel, travel insurance provider and family members – just in case you lose your phone.

8. Worldwide travel adapter

No more last-minute dashes to the airport duty-free to invest in an overpriced adapter! We love this BEZ® travel adapter, which will keep your tech charged in more than 150 countries! So, BEZ® will provide the power when you’re at your hotel, and GP will provide it when you’re on the move – whenever, wherever!

9. Remedies

You’ve bought a first aid kit to take on your travels, but you should also prepare for the unexpected by packing things like insect spray, aftersun and sickness tablets – you can get ill whether you’re in India or St Ives!

10. Portable water bottles

Save a fortune and do your bit for the environment with a Chilly’s water bottle, which will keep your water nice and cool, whether you’re lounging by the pool or embarking on a day trip. If tap water is safe to drink in the country you’re visiting, you can fill up your bottles at the hotel before heading out.

There’s no doubt you’ll have a happy holiday with these items in tow – if you’ve got any recommendations of your own, please share them with us on our Facebook page!