12 Things I Always Forget to Pack (But Never Again)
No matter how many times I travel, there’s always something I forget to pack. It’s never the big things like my passport or shoes because I double and triple-check those. It’s the little, easily overlooked essentials that I only realize I need when it’s too late. And let me tell you, hunting down a travel adapter in a foreign country or trying to find motion sickness pills mid-flight is not my idea of a good time.
After too many of these “oops” moments, I finally made a master travel packing list of the things I always forget so I don’t have to learn the hard way again. If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling for a forgotten must-have when traveling, this list is for you.
After years of traveling, I’ve learned a lot of helpful tips and tricks. If you want to read more of my travel advice and recommendations, check out these posts:
12 Things I Always Forget to Pack When Traveling (But Never Again)
1. Travel Adapters and Chargers
There’s nothing worse than arriving at your hotel, ready to charge your phone, only to realize your plug won’t fit in the outlet. I once spent half a day searching for the right adapter in Paris. It wasn’t fun.
Now, I always pack:
- A universal travel adapter (so I’m covered no matter where I go)
- An extra phone charger (one for my suitcase, one for my bag)
I now always travel with this portable power bank to recharge things on the go. It’s allowed in your carry-on, which makes it super valuable to me.
2. Medications and First-Aid Essentials
I always pack my prescription medications but often forget the just-in-case stuff like diarrhea medicine and anti-nausea pills.
Now, I bring:
- My prescription medications (in their original bottles)
- Pain relievers (headaches always happen at the worst time)
- Motion sickness pills (for boat rides, long drives, or bumpy flights)
- Blister pads (if I’m walking a lot, these are a lifesaver)
- Antihistamines (because I never know when allergies will strike)
This kit has a variety of medicines in it: Travel RX Medicine Kit – Bulk Travel Medicine Kit with Individually Wrapped Medicine & Bag for Indigestion, Motion Sickness & More by Real Vitamins (1 Kit)
3. Travel-Sized Toiletries
I’ve learned that relying on hotel toiletries is a gamble. Some places have great shampoo; others leave my hair looking like a bird’s nest.
I now make sure to pack:
- Travel-size toothpaste & toothbrush
- Makeup remover (less messy than liquid cleansers)
- Sunscreen (because I’m particular about my favs, and buying it at a resort costs a fortune)
Pro tip: Keep a pre-packed toiletry bag so I never forget these again.
4. Copies of Important Documents
Having a paper backup of your hotel reservations is essential in case your phone dies or you have no Wi-Fi.
Now, I always:
- Print a copy of my passport and credit cards
- Keep digital backups in my email and phone notes
- Save my hotel and flight details offline
A little preparation goes a long way.
5. A Lightweight Jacket or Wrap
Even when I’m heading to a warm destination, I always regret not bringing an extra layer. I’ve frozen in over-air-conditioned restaurants, shivered on breezy boat rides, and regretted not having something cozy on long flights.
Now, I pack:
- A packable rain jacket (for unexpected weather)
- A lightweight cardigan (neutral colors go with everything)
- A travel wrap (doubles as a scarf, wrap, or travel blanket)
6. Comfortable Walking Shoes
I love a stylish shoe, but my feet do not love blisters. I’ve learned that bringing just one pair of cute shoes is a mistake—my feet need a break.
I now bring:
- Supportive sneakers (for full days of sightseeing)
- Flip-flops or slides (for the hotel, beach, or spa)
- Blister-preventing socks (these are a game-changer)
You can find my entire list of travel/walking shoe recommendations for women here.
7. Snacks and a Reusable Water Bottle
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been stuck on a delayed flight or in a long customs line, absolutely starving. Airport food is expensive, and I don’t always have time to stop and eat.
Now, I always pack:
- My favorite protein bars (because hunger sneaks up fast)
- Nuts or trail mix (easy to pack, no mess)
- Electrolyte packets (perfect for long flights or hot weather)
- A water bottle (to stay hydrated)
8. A Small Crossbody Bag or Daypack
I always use a small, lightweight bag that fits just my essentials and can easily tuck into my larger carry-on. I like the secure feeling of having it around my waist and keeps my hands free.
This travel bag from Lo & Sons (you can read my review here!) is a true multitasker. It effortlessly transforms from a crossbody into a belt bag, shoulder bag, evening clutch, or even a makeup pouch to tuck inside a larger bag. I also love their Pearl travel bag (which I own in two colors), which can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody, or clutch with a wrist strap.
I love a crossbody bag or belt bag for travel because:
- It keeps my hands free for shopping and taking photos
- It’s safer in busy areas than a backpack
- Many styles now have RFID-blocking pockets for security
9. A Travel Laundry Bag
I used to store my dirty clothes in a compartment inside my suitcase, but that just made everything smell questionable. Now, I keep things fresh with:
- A lightweight, washable laundry bag
- Wet bag for wet swimsuits
- Travel-size detergent (for quick sink washes)
10. Extra Glasses or Contacts
I always bring an extra pair of glasses and sunglasses because I would be lost if I accidentally stepped on or misplaced them.
If you wear contacts, I also suggest you pack:
- A backup pair of glasses
- Extra contact lenses
- Travel-size contact solution
There’s nothing worse than struggling to see when you’re trying to enjoy the sights!
11. A Travel-Sized Stain Remover
Coffee spills, makeup smudges, food stains… you name it, it happens. A mini stain remover wipe has saved many outfits for me.
Perfect for:
- Coffee drips from a bumpy flight
- A little wine spill at dinner
- That mysterious smudge from airport security
12. Earplugs and an Eye Mask
I love a good hotel, but I’ve had my fair share of loud neighbors and bright hallway lights creeping under the door.
I always bring:
- Earplugs (great for blocking out noise)
- A comfy eye mask (so I can sleep even if it’s bright)
- Noise-canceling headphones (especially for flights)
These little things make a big difference when it comes to rest.
What about you? Are there any must-have travel items you’d add to this packing list? Or have you ever realized mid-trip that you forgot something important? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
Great list! I always forget my portable charger, and it can be a real lifesaver while traveling. Thanks for the tips!
Like the other 30% plus of us over 50 with hearing loss, I’d pack extras for my hearing aids such as tips, filters and my charger (or batteries), also my previous set of hearing aids for backup, just as I pack an extra pair of glasses.
Great ideas from readers! Now I always pack an extention cord that can accomodate 3 devices! With all the electronics to be charged there are not always enough outlets in hotel rooms with convenient location! My husband packs a 5 outlet power strip! Also recently have been packing extra two prong cube shaped adapters (for wall outlet) that have at least 2 USB ports. On recent trip I was surprised to find out when I reached my destination, that I had only the phone charger cord without the 2 pronged “plug” on the end to put into the wall outlet! Luckily someone gifted me an adapter! They’re handy for charging devices on the plane and anywhere you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously!
Those are a great idea!
I take photos of all my documents with my phone in case anything goes astray along with a photo of the code for unlocking my case. Plus I put a couple of changes of my clothes into my husband’s case and some of his into my case in case our suitcases go amiss which has happened. I also carry a letter from my doctor listing all my meds and anything else pertinent. A nasal spray is helpful too as flying can play havoc with the sinuses.
Terrific ideas!
Great tips, Jennifer! I made a small (3″ × 5″) tray that goes on my nightstand to hold my jewelry. It has snaps in the corners so I can unsnap it and it will lay flat to pack. I also always carry a flat sink “plug” after finding that there was no drain stopper in the sink when I REALLY needed to do some hand laundry. Finally, I bring an empty travel-size spray bottle. I find that wrinkles come out of most clothes with a spray of water and some hand-smoothing.
Fantastic tips Jennifer and thanks to your suggestions, all family members (including our Grand Children as now all grown up) got a universal adapter and power bank in their Xmas Stocking from Santa and were delighted. Also great tips from many of the commenters and yours under the title of ‘Medications and First Aid’ certainly brought back memories as; when my daughter who was seventeen at the time got her first modeling job in Japan, I put together a kit for her and got an eye-roll however she quickly learned ‘never to leave home without it’ while travelling the globe (as did it for three months for four years to contribute to her University education). As to myself; due to medical reasons of my husband we don’t travel as much as we would like to however like Irene (below) we too now have an ’emergency bag’ packed at all times for a ‘just in case’ hospital stay that includes personals and even grippy socks. -Brenda-
Great list! I used to have a portable ‘clothesline,’ which you could hang in the shower or elsewhere in the bathroom. It was made of twisted lines, so you could tuck your clothes in (no clothes pins) to dry. I, too, travel with at least one nightlight, usually two.
My recent European trip, taught me to not forget deodorant, not something I use at home, every day, but much needed when traveling(especially when showers aren’t always available). It was an adventure to buy deodorant in Greece. I used packing cubes & ziploc bags, my luggage was so very organized and ready for my next trip.
Your hair looks amazing!! Perhaps the minoxidil has kicked in and is doing its magical thing? Looks really great!!
Thanks! I think it is helping
Such a great list. I think it makes a lot of sense to have a permanently packed go bag with everything but clothes and prescription meds. As far as snacks are concerned, I always bring celery sticks. Yes, they get warm, but they are still refreshing and crunchy. I have also heard of those thoughtful people who bring a small gift from the US for travel guides etc. Of course, you can tip and buy a gift locally, but something a little special might be nice. You cannot do this on a cruise with so many guides, but if you have a special tour etc, it would be nice perhaps.
Empty freezer zipper bags in a couple of sizes take no space and come in handy more often than one would think.
We often stay at short-term rentals, in part so we can do laundry, and washing detergent sheets ( many kinds found on Amazon) are small and won’t leak in your luggage.
Also, as we’ve gotten older we have realized the benefits of compression socks for those long flights. No more waking up at the end of the flight and struggling to get your feet in your shoes!
I bring ziplocks too
Love all your tips. Very relatable. Thank you !!!
Something to share with the community that I find really useful…Amazon has those reusable plastic grocery bags in different patterns that can be folded up in a handy zip pouch. I take a couple of these to Europe with me, as often plastic bags are banned, and when you are in a hotel room and want to “eat in” or get snacks, having these little bags ready to go is a real winner. I keep a couple in the pockets of the jacket/coat I pack, so when I am out and about I have them in the “just incase….” moment. My husband loves buying a bottle of wine and nuts for the hotel room to celebrate and from staying away from the high prices of the mini bar!:)
Great tip!
Oooo going to keep this thank you Jennifer. I love the Lo and Sons travel bag and bought it in two colors navy and camel brown, as l wore the navy non stop when in London and think it’s such a clever bag. Have a beautiful weekend xo
I have my eye on the navy one too. I think I’ll be perfect in my wardrobe.
Excellent lists and advice! The one thing I would add is to have the number to call circled and highlighted to contact your travel insurance. I tripped & fell on the way to the plane and spent a very painful 5 hour flight with a sprained ankle and broken foot. I should have gone to an urgent care but didn’t know how to postpone the flight. When home I asked my travel agent what I should have done. She said to always have your travel insurance phone # handy as that’s their job to advocate for you.
That’s very good advice! Sorry about your ankle and foot.
I always pack a nightlight and a pack of various sizes of bandaids. My husband is on Eliquis and the bandaids have been handy numerous times! And it goes without saying – hand wiped & Clorox wipes.
Great ideas! I have a tendency to get dehydrated on long hauls and have developed a UTI more than once overseas and had difficulties finding urgent care or open pharmacies. I carry over the counter pills for that and cranberry supplements just in case. A reusable water bottle helps.
Also travel size clothes fresheners that can double as room and suitcase freshener, hand sanitizer wipes and I throw in a couple of masks in case I’m near someone coughing or sneezing. Travel size Downy wrinkle remover spray can come in handy too.
That’s so smart of you!
That’s a great list! I keep all of my travel necessities in a tote so I can easily find what I need when it’s time to pack. I have foldable travel hangers since there never seem to be enough, especially if traveling with a family. They take up very little space and have come in handy. Recently, I also added a battery operated small carbon monoxide alarm to my travel tote after reading some stories on the lack of alarms in overseas hotels. It’s a small expense for peace of mind!
Oh that’s a great idea Debbie!
I always pack a nightlight for the bathroom.
That’s SO smart.
Like the other 30% plus of us over 50 with hearing loss, I’d pack extras for my hearing aids such as tips, filters and my charger (or batteries). also my previous set of hearing aids for backup, just as I pack extras glasses.
Very smart idea!
Thanks for the tips. We are going on our first river cruise on the Danube in September. I don’t want to get sick. We have not cruised since before covid. I would recommend to get good medical insurance for trip. I know of someone that got sick , he had to go to a hospital in another country. The whole thing could have wiped them out financially if they had not had coverage.
Have fun!
Yes! We always pay for travel insurance. Smart idea.
Pretty good list. Sound like a lot but you sort things into freezer quality (tough!) quart zip-locks and stuff those little bags into the awkward corners of your case. You didn’t mention reading material or a neck pillow. I generally prefer paper but for travel you can’t beat an e-reader. Lots of downtime on the road. I do keep a rollaboard packed with everything that I always take. Just add appropriate attire and prescription meds. I hope not to ever need a “go bag”, but it would work for that too.
This article came at a great time for me! I’m retiring this summer, and just booked a Scotland trip with friends in the fall, so I’m already in ‘packing’ mode (in my mind, anyway!). I’m saving this email so when the trip gets closer, I can refer to it.
Speaking from experience (as in right now) I will be beefing up my first aid kit, to ensure it includes large bandaids (usually they just have one size), travel sized neosporin, and enough cold and flu medication to carry me through my entire trip!
Very smart!
Excellent list, thank you. I have a partially packed bag at all times, so my basic toiletries and makeup are in one place. If I have an emergency and need to go to a hospital and stay for a few days, my husband can be told where to find these, and I would feel more comfortable with my own items. I used to do a master list for my husband when he travelled weekly for his business. That way if I was distracted as I packed his suitcase, he would still have clean underwear😉.
I enjoy your blog and look forward to it each morning with my coffee. Thank you for all your work.
I think I’ll pack an at home, grab and go bag. Why have I need thought of that before?? Brilliant. I think I’ll include a few days of my meds too.
I am a scout leader so “Be Prepared” is my mantra! This is a great list!
I’d add:
Fabric spray/Febreeze
Air tags in all bags;
Foldable shopping bag/Baggu
Steamer if going for work
A light, knit robe for post shower/lounging. Mine is knee length and takes up no room. I hate freezing after a shower wearing a wet towel that falls down! Game changer.
Can’t wait to see everyone’s suggestions!
Great ideas Shari! I’ll be adding the Fabreeze
Tissues and gum/throat lozenges always go in my purse or carry-on. Every time I forgotten them, I need them.
Yes! I can never have too many tissues and lozenges are a brilliant idea.
I have printed your list and it will go in my suitcase.
I always pack like I’m going on a cruise ship and unable to run and pick up a forgotten staple. Thank goodness for travel size products!
Great tips, Jennifer! Leaving soon on a Viking River trip…all your ideas are winners. I also take magnetic hooks and clips – great for hanging up hats, bags…and the clips keep your paperwork/tour tickets in sight and not shoved under something. I also take a small doorstop…just put it under our hotel or cabin door for extra security. Happy Travels !
I love the doorstop idea! My daughter has a chargeable one with an alarm.
Good morning, Jennifer. I never travel without my hard shell portable bra travel case. I can fit 3 different coloured bras inside it plus undies. It prevents having our lovely undergarment from getting completely flattened and scrunched up, especially the way airlines handle our luggage. I gifted one to my daughter and 2 daughter-in-laws as well and they all love it. Lingerie stores sometimes carry them but I found mine on Amazon. It’s a permanent accessory in my luggage at all times. 😊
What a clever idea!
Great list. I would also recommend to download some entertainment on your electronics. My husband and I were on an 18 plus hour flight in December and BOTH of our entertainment screens didn’t work. Luckily we had some shows and and books on our devices, well as our music. I also had my print versions of a crossword and sudoko book with me. That flight is one of the world’s longest and without any entertainment, it would have been miserable.
That’s so smart!! 18 hours is brutal.