New York City is more than a destination; it’s a full-on experience. Millions of tourists travel to this iconic metropolis every year to explore and experience all that it has to offer. When you decide to visit, make sure that you’re well prepared with a few essential items every New Yorker needs for a successful day in the city.
- Shoes
When it comes to how they’ll get around the Big Apple, most out-of-towners picture taxi cabs and subway cars. However, you’ll be more than likely walking for most of your trip. With this in mind, a pair of comfortable shoes is essential when visiting New York City. The last thing you want is for your adventure to be marred by blistered or aching feet. Tennis shoes and comfortable flats are highly advisable.
On that note, it’s also advisable to avoid flip flops and sandals. They may look cute, and they may keep your feet cool, but you’re almost certain to get stepped on at some point. Likewise, sandals offer you no protection from others. There are also puddles on New York City sidewalks, and they aren’t always rainwater. Protect your feet!
- Easy Access Wallet
New Yorkers tend to stay busy, and they appreciate it when visitors play by their rules. Having an accessible wallet means that you will be able to quickly reach your ID, metro pass, or debit card when the situation calls for it. Your preparation will not go unnoticed by the locals and will probably afford you a much better experience overall.
Some people are afraid of muggings or robberies when visiting the city, so they hide their wallets away deep in a bag or a backpack. Truthfully, this makes you look like a tourist and increases the likelihood that you’ll be the victim of scams and other forms of fraud during travel. Instead, opt for a slim card sleeve or a lanyard with space for a few essentials that you can keep in a front pocket.
- Daypack
With all of the walking and exploring that you’re sure to do while you visit, a useful daypack is essential. A daypack is a small backpack that allows you to carry all of your essentials with you on an outing. It operates like a purse but is preferable because of its ease of use and your ability to remain hands-free. When you’re looking for a good daypack, make sure that you find a lightweight and weather-resistant option. It’s also a good idea to make sure that you pick a pack with a few divided sections so that you can keep your snacks, toiletries, and other essentials separated.
- Portable Charger
Mobile devices are useful in everyday life, and they’re even more helpful in a place like New York City. When you’re exploring, your smartphone can quickly allow you to access tickets, business hours, and special notices. Most devices double as excellent cameras, and almost all of them will provide you with walking directions for that inevitable moment when you look up and realize that you don’t know how to get back to your hotel. With all of the uses, its no wonder that cell phone batteries don’t seem to last as long as you want them to. Luckily, there’s a solution. Make sure that you put a portable charger into your daypack and use it whenever your phone needs a boost. Just make sure that you charge it every night so that it’s ready to go in the morning.
- Jacket
Weather in New York City is notoriously fickle. Beautiful mornings can quickly give way to rainy afternoons and chilly evenings. Make sure that you keep a lightweight jacket or windbreaker in your daypack to maximize your time for activities and keep you comfortable as you go about your day.