No matter how much you plan or how many lists you make, no one can predict every situation they might run into on an international trip. Flights can get delayed, bad weather can strike, and countless other calamities can make your journey a chore.

Although you can’t predict the future, you can help prepare yourself for whatever may come your way on an international vacation by packing these five essentials:

1. Travel Pillow

No one likes trying to take a nap at an airport gate. Airline seats can be similarly uncomfortable. And don’t even get us started on the foam blocks that some hotels pass off as pillows. Rather than be tired and have a sore neck, pack a travel pillow. Quality ones support your neck properly and are extremely light. You can even buy the inflatable type if suitcase space is at a premium.

2. Power Bank

Don’t get stuck searching the airport concourse for an open outlet when your phone is at 3% and you’re waiting for an important email. Buy a compact lithium ion power bank instead. Most are scarcely larger than a candy bar, yet can fully recharge the average phone about four times. Be sure to look for a power bank with at least 20,000mAh capacity that’s from a reputable brand. It's not a good idea to cheap out on potentially dangerous batteries.

3. Compression Socks

Does a long flight make your ankles sore? That’s because sitting for long hours can lead to fluid accumulation in your legs, and even dreaded deep vein thrombosis. To avoid the pain and swelling, put on a pair of quality compression socks for your travel days. They compress the blood vessels of your lower limbs to reduce fluid accumulation. 

4. Portable Water Filter

You may be used to accessing clean drinking water straight from the tap in your country, but this isn’t the case everywhere. To reduce your dependence on expensive bottled water that creates needless waste, invest in a portable water filter. They can be as small as a pen, or even incorporated into your water bottle. The average water filter can clean 1,500 liters in between filter changes.

5. Money Belt

No matter where you go, pickpockets can be a problem. You may never see them strike, but you’ll certainly notice when your cash, cards, and ID are gone. A travel money belt can reduce the risk. It’s an elastic band with pockets that fastens around your waist, under your clothing. Your valuables are securely kept out of reach and out of sight. Most also incorporate material that’s resistant to unauthorized credit card scanning. 

Don’t Forget This Other Travel Essential 

There’s something else you should be sure to purchase before any international trip: travel insurance.

Those traveling internationally to locations outside the United States should buy travel medical insurance to help cover necessary medical costs for unplanned illnesses or injuries. If you’re traveling internationally to the USA, get visitors medical insurance for the same purpose.

With the right travel insurance and these travel essentials, you’ll be as prepared as possible for any speedbumps you may encounter on your international trip.