21 Travel Items You Didn’t Know You Could Buy at the Dollar Store

If you’ve got a trip coming up, you might need to pick up some travel essentials like luggage tags or a neck pillow. Why overpay when you can pick them up at the dollar store? We’ve put together a list of travel items that are not only good to bring with you when travelling, you can get them for much less at a discount shop. We’ve also included some travel hacks: these items can be lifesavers when things go wrong. And based on experience, they often do!

Thinkstock

1 / 21

1. Neck pillow

Neck pillows can be surprisingly expensive, especially if you buy them at the airport just before your flight. Head to the dollar store instead and pick one up for a few bucks.

Before you fly, check out this roundup of 35 secrets pilots won't tell you.

Thinkstock

2 / 21

2. Sewing kit

You never know when you're going to pop a button or need to fix a hem, especially when travelling. Pick up a sewing kit for a few bucks and you'll always be prepared.

You might also like to check out these 20 travel booking myths - busted!

Thinkstock

3 / 21

3. Notepad or journal

You never know when inspiration will strike. They're also handy for grocery lists, to-do lists, and to record important contact information and directions. It's one of 20 items you should always pack in your carry-on (or just bring on board).

Thinkstock

4 / 21

4. Duct tape

Duct tape can be a lifesaver when you're travelling. You can fix everything from luggage to shoes and can even use it to hold a bandage in place. Buy a small roll, step on it to flatten it and toss it in your bag. Never leave home without it.

Planning a trip? Don't miss 20 clever travel hacks that will save you cash.

Thinkstock

5 / 21

5. Canadian gifts

If you want to bring some inexpensive Canadian gifts with you, you'll find an assortment at the dollar store. From flags to hats, and everything in between, it's a (cheap) surefire way to put a smile on someone's face while you're abroad.

You may also like: 20 of the most beautiful cities in Canada.

Thinkstock

6 / 21

6. Medicine

Medicine is one of the top 10 things you should never buy at the duty-free. You can find small packages of many brand name drugs at the dollar store. It's a great way to stock up on pain reliever and tablets for allergies, upset stomachs, and diarrhea. You can make a little first aid kit for just a few bucks.

Thinkstock

7 / 21

7. Reading glasses

Dollar store reading glasses are so cheap that you can grab a couple of pairs and never worry about losing them.

Being prepared is just one of the top 10 travel tips to lower your anxiety.

Thinkstock

8 / 21

8. Eyeglass screwdriver

If you wear glasses, it's a good idea to carry a small micro-screwdriver to keep the arms tight.

Want more insider secrets? Check out 20 things airlines don't tell you.

Thinkstock

9 / 21

9. Hand sanitizer

Why pay more for hand sanitizer? Pick up a small bottle or two at the dollar store and save a few bucks. It'll come in handy — trust us. On the flip side, here are 10 things travellers always pack but never use.

Thinkstock

10 / 21

10. Sanitizing wipes

Sanitizing wipes are also handy when travelling. You can use them to wipe down surprisingly dirty surfaces like the seat-back tray table on the plane or a nasty looking public keyboard.

For more, check out 20 things you should always travel with.

Thinkstock

11 / 21

11. Zipper freezer bags

Freezer bags that zip shut provide extra protection if you're carrying liquids in your suitcase. They're also handy if you want to carry fresh snacks with you.
Just don't bring smelly food, or you may become one of the types of people nobody wants to fly with.

Thinkstock

12 / 21

12. Cables and adapters

Pick up a couple of spare charging cables for your phone, so you always have a back-up. You can buy cheap chargers too, but make sure they have enough juice for your phone or tablet.

Thinkstock

13 / 21

13. Bandanas

Dew rags or bandanas can come in handy when you're travelling. You can use them to soak up sweat, clean up messes or as a napkin if you're eating street food.

Thinkstock

14 / 21

14. Ramen

A couple of packs of ramen can save the day if you're stuck in the hotel with little more than a kettle.

Thinkstock

15 / 21

15. Packing tape

Yes, we're big on tape. But you never know when you'll need to send something home. A small roll of packing tape will make packing easier since all you'll need is a box!

Thinkstock

16 / 21

16. Felt marker

Of course, you'll have to label any packages you're sending home, so pick up a $1 marker as well. You can use it to label other things too.

Thinkstock

17 / 21

17. Luggage tags

Why pay $5 or more for luggage tags when you can find the exact same ones at the dollar store for a buck?

Thinkstock

18 / 21

18. Travel umbrella

They won't hold up in a monsoon, but a cheap travel umbrella will keep you dry if you get caught in a sudden shower. Pack it in a place that's easily accessible, so you can grab it when you need it.

Thinkstock

19 / 21

19. Colouring books

Travelling with kids? Pop into the dollar store for some colouring books and games. They're cheap, so you can just give them away if your kids lose interest.

Thinkstock

20 / 21

20. Travel size toiletries

Generally speaking, you should buy your toiletries when you arrive. But, if you really think you'll need something when you land, you can pick up travel size toiletries in advance, for just a few bucks.

Getty Images

21 / 21

21. Vinyl poncho

A waterproof vinyl poncho can come in handy on any trip. This unisex essential travel item is especially necessary when you're planning on enjoying excursions and adventures during your travels.

You'll want to be prepared before you tackle the 20 most beautiful places in Canada.