Travel essentials: the short list

Many travel headaches come from small things: a charger that doesn't fit the socket, a power bank confiscated at the airport, or a suitcase over the weight limit. Here are the key essentials and how to choose them.

1. Your suitcase

Hard or soft shell? Hard shells protect contents better and handle rain; soft cases are lighter and have outside pockets.
Wheels: four spinner wheels are easiest in airports.
Size and weight: check your ticket's baggage allowance; the empty suitcase's weight counts, so lighter is better.
Cabin bag: check your airline's size limits before buying.

2. Power banks: mind airline rules

Power banks go in carry-on only, never in checked baggage.
Under general IATA guidance: up to 100 Wh is usually allowed, 100–160 Wh needs airline approval, and above that is prohibited.
Watt-hours ≈ (capacity in mAh × 3.7) ÷ 1000. Example: 20,000 mAh ≈ 74 Wh.
Always check your airline's own policy, as some add extra conditions.

3. Plug adapter

Saudi Arabia's standard socket has three rectangular pins (Type G). Most of Europe uses two round pins (Type C/F), and the US uses Type A/B. The easiest option is a universal travel adapter with USB ports — just make sure it's a plug adapter, not a voltage converter (most phone and laptop chargers accept 100–240 V automatically; check the label on your charger).

4. Small things that make a difference

Packing cubes: faster packing and better use of space.
A small luggage scale: protects you from overweight fees.
A neck pillow for long flights.
Small liquid bottles for your carry-on within the allowed limits.

Checklist before leaving for the airport

Passport, visa and tickets (plus digital copies).
Power bank and chargers in your carry-on.
The right adapter for your destination.
Suitcase weight within the allowance.

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Suitcases on Amazon.sa
Universal travel adapters
Packing cubes