Packing for a vacation or work trip? We’ve got you covered with this list of must-have items that are (speaking from experience!) easily forgotten.
Phone Charger
Your phone might be your lifeline. And without a charger, you may not get very far in your travels: You can’t look up directions, contact friends and family, take photos of your favorite spots, or discover new restaurants, museums, tours, etc. Our advice? Pack one in advance. Or, better yet, keep one in your luggage at all times. Purchasing one at an airport or resort can often be pricier than usual.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is not an expensive necessity, and if you’re staying at a hotel, you may be able to request some of the free toothpaste that they offer, but it probably won’t be the brand or flavor you like. Being picky with your toothpaste isn’t a bad thing! That’s why we encourage you to make sure your preferred toothpaste is on your “need to pack” list.
Bathing Suit
Even if you are heading somewhere not known for swimming weather, you’d be surprised how many places have indoor pools or hot tubs. A swimsuit doesn’t take up a lot of room in your suitcase, so what’s the harm in bringing at least one?
First Aid Kit + Painkillers
Small first aid kits and painkillers can be life-savers! All you need is a few bandaids, antibiotic cream, eye drops, tweezers, and anything else that makes sense if a mini emergency comes up. Painkillers are a must in that package, especially for treating headaches, hangovers, and minor injuries.
Hand Sanitizer
The last thing you want to do is get sick while you’re away, which is why hand sanitizer is a must! This way you can use as much as you want, whenever you want.
Glasses/Contacts
Forgetting glasses or contacts can be a traveler’s worst nightmare. And it’s not so easy to walk into an eye doctor’s office and get a same-day prescription while away from home. If you have both glasses and contacts, always pack both. Situations may arise where you prefer one option over the other.
Passport/Identification
Forgetting your passport and/or ID can really put a damper on your travel plans. For starters, if you’re flying, you won’t be able to get past security without proper identification. Even if you’re not flying, identification should always be a must-pack for both safety and practicality, as it may be required to enter certain venues, purchase alcohol, or use your credit card.
Climate-Appropriate Clothing
It’s important to know what the weather will be like. Running off to a sunny place? Shorts and tank tops are welcomed, but you may want to pack a jacket, just in case. Heading to a winter cabin? Warmer attire will be needed, but always pack layers. And, of course, you never know when it might rain. So plan accordingly, just in case.
Sunscreen
If you will be spending most of your time outdoors, be sure to pack sunscreen – even for cold climates. It’ll moisturize your skin and prevent sunburn.
Extras
There are other items that don’t automatically come to mind when making your “need to pack” list. Here are some additional suggestions:
- Headphones – Great to watch movies and listen to music on long plane rides
- Daily medications – Supplements, prescriptions, and vitamins that you can’t live without
- Earplugs – To sleep with when you have a loud or snoring sleep neighbor
- Eye mask – Just in case you can’t sleep in new environments without complete darkness
- Chapstick – Chapped lips are the worst!
- A Good book – If you want something to occupy your mind other than movies and music
- Gum – To prevent your ears from popping
Are we missing anything from our must-have packing list? Let us know in the comments below!