Of course there are many thing you need to remember, but most of these things aren't forgettable. Even though a camera, passport and wallet are among the things you should never forget to pack, you're not likely to forget those things. Have you ever walked into an airport without your wallet or passport?
I've tried to compile a more helpful list of things you will forget, because they always fly under your packing radar. I travel regularly, and I used to always forget these few items. Now I keep a small bag pre-packed for every trip, with just these things inside, ready to go.
Here are the things you will most likely forget, but DO need to pack for any trip:
Phone Charger
We always remember to bring our phones, but do you remember the charger? I used to forget it, especially when crossing international lines. I finally bought a second charger and keep it packed and ready to go. I also include a plug converter.
Extra Passport Photos
In addition to your passport, you'll also need 4 extra photos, standard 1 inch size. In the event your passport is lost or stolen, you'll need these for a quick replacement or to get back into the US. Also, you might need a visa to take a side trip to another country. When I was in Cambodia, I decided to pop next door to see Vietnam, but I needed to get a visa to enter. This required 2 photos, an inconvenience for my travel companions - but I have a dozen already on hand.
Band-aids
You never know when you'll get a paper cut, or worse. Carry 1 band-aid in your wallet and a dozen more in your suitcase. They don't take much room, but are invaluable when a cut happens!
Vitamin C
Traveling takes extra energy, and you may have irregular sleep and eating habits while traveling. Take vitamins with your meals to boost your immune system while traveling.
Aspirin, and antacids
You will need an aspirin, you just don't know when. Don't count on a tour guide to have one, and most airlines are not allowed to dispense drugs. Carry a few aspirin and some antacids. Also, some Peptol Bismol tablets in case of an upset stomach.
Backup documents
Carry copies of all your travel documents, and your birth certificate. Copy your hotel, airline, and other documentation. Keep copies of everything handy. Have the birth certificate in case you run into problems with your passport. Keep these along with your extra photos.
Notebook adapter
Many people run out of the house with their notebook pc and no plug adapter. That means they have 2 to 4 hours of use, and then their notebook becomes an expensive paper weight. Don't forget to pack the plug and adapter, too - along with an international adapter.
Camera Batteries or Charger
Same idea. Of course, you're not likely to forget your camera, but how often do your remember the charger? If your camera takes standard batteries, pack those too. You don't want to be looking over the Grand Canyon or the Pyramids of Giza and have your batteries go out. Neither place has battery vendors, by the way.
Mosquito repellent
This one only applies to summer travel, or any traveling in the tropics. Don't expect to be able to find it on the island or beach. Carry it with you, and don't underestimate its importance. Mosquitoes can carry many diseases. Protect yourself with some deet or your favorite brand of repellent.
Tissues and proper germ-killing lotion
You need a tissue or napkin at the oddest times. Make sure you have them handy, along with a hand lotion that gets rid of germs. Avoid the anti-bacterial soaps and lotions! We Americans have fallen in love with the anti-bacterial lotions of every kind, but they are all bad for your skin and health! Most anti-bacterial lotions kill everything, including the good fungi that help our bodies. When the good fungus is dead, there is nothing to fight off the bad bacteria that can get to your skin. A third of us will have rashes on our hands, and no clue why.... it's bacteria growing. Instead, use a coconut oil hand lotion. It will kill the bad bacteria and fungi, but won't harm the good stuff. It won't mess with your immune system, either.
Ok, now you have the list of things not to forget for travel. Pre-pack a small cosmetic bag and you're ready for your next vacation.
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