Admit it, you have been there before…you’re leaving to go on a trip, and at some point throughout your travels, you realize that you’ve forgotten something. No one likes having to go and buy those things while traveling – not only is it an added expense, but it can be a hassle to find some of these things, especially in foreign countries. Here are some of the most common items guests forget to bring with them when traveling – don’t forget to pack these in your suitcase for your next trip!
1. An Emergency Kit
You never know when you’re going to need something from your handy-dandy emergency kit. Whether you find yourself in need of a bandaid or some basic meds, it’s always a good thing to have in your suitcase. Common items to include in an emergency kit include painkillers, antihistamines, coughdrops, bandaids, Neosporin, a mini sewing kit, floss, Q-tips, baby powder, tampons and pads, sunscreen, bug spray, and aloe vera gel.
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2. Plug Adapters
This is a big one, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Plugs are different across the world, so without a plug adapter, you might find yourself unable to charge any of your devices. It’s important to research the type of adapter you’ll need for your destination beforehand and to purchase a compatible adapter before you leave.
3. Sense of Humor
Okay, so this isn’t something you actually pack to take with you, but it’s just as important! Flexibility and a sense of humor can prepare you to face the inevitable ‘hiccups’ that can occur on any trip. Even more than that, it’s amazing how exploring another culture can immediately make you forget any of the small annoyances that travel can present.
4. Batteries
It never hurts to carry a spare set of AA or AAA batteries with you when you’re traveling – you just never know when you might need them. They can come in handy if the remotes in your hotel or Airbnb suddenly die, especially late at night when trying to get new ones from the front desk can be a challenge. Or, if you’re traveling for work and you use a wireless mouse, a spare set for that can save you from a major headache!
5. Belt & Sunglasses
Belts and sunglasses are common items that often get left behind but can be difficult to replace. Sunglasses are a challenge in particular because there are different price points, and styles that people have personal preferences for. On the other hand, buying a belt is not as difficult, but it can feel like a waste of time and money, especially if you already have perfectly good ones at home – it’s not like you need THAT many belts!
6. Disinfectant Wipes
Especially since the pandemic, traveling with disinfectant wipes is a must. They’re perfect for wiping down tray tables on the airplane, and high-touch surfaces like door handles, light switches, remotes, and bathroom countertops in your hotel. Not only does this help you ensure a level of cleanliness that you’re comfortable with, but it can also prevent you from getting sick. Sadly, we can’t always count on hospitality staff to do a sufficient cleaning job anymore.
7. Bag of Ice
This is an item that you pick up on your way rather than pack in your luggage, but stopping to buy a bag of ice is a great idea. Sometimes hotels you are staying in don’t have ice makers, or if they do, they can be full of germs or out of order. And ice is useful for other things besides keeping things cold; it can help remove stains from clothing, and combined with a fan, it can also act as an air conditioner in a pinch.
8. Bug Spray
Bugs are a nuisance no matter where you are in the world, and bug spray is really the only thing that helps keep them at bay. This is one thing you want to avoid traveling without, especially if you plan to explore the outdoors. Luckily, it’s also pretty widely accessible, so if you do discover that you’ve left yours at home, it’s likely that you can buy some in a local store.
9. Carbon Monoxide Alarm
If you are someone who generally stays in hostels, Airbnb, or vacation rentals when you travel, a carbon monoxide alarm is a must. With properties like those, you can’t trust that they’re maintained to the same level of safety that a hotel would be, so it’s best to ensure your own safety. Of course, you hope that it won’t go off, and in reality, it’s unlikely, but with the alternative being a silent death, why take the risk?
10. Travel Cutlery
Travel cutlery sets can be incredibly useful when traveling! If you’re someone who orders food delivery, or picks up takeout to eat in your hotel room when you’re traveling, then you know what a pain it can be to try and eat your food when there’s no cutlery in your room! That tiny little teaspoon they give you to make a cup of tea or coffee is not meant for eating anything!
11. Sleeping Accessories
Soft earplugs and a sleeping mask can make all the difference. Not only are these great for the plane if you like to try to sleep during your flights, but they’re also perfect for when you have loud people staying with you or a late-night party is going on in the hotel room next to you. Getting a good night’s sleep while traveling can be hard enough in an unfamiliar environment, don’t let additional noises or bright lights stop you!
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