Top 10 Things You Don’t Want to Forget to Pack!

When planning a vacation, it’s important to make a packing list so that you don’t forget anything essential. However, even the most detail-oriented people can sometimes overlook certain items. Here is a list of the top ten things people forget to pack for vacation:

1. Phone charger: It’s easy to forget this essential item when rushing around trying to get everything else ready (this also includes laptop, watch, camera, and any electronic charging devices you might need.) Without it, you might find yourself with a dead phone and no way to communicate in a time of need (think trying to call your uber from the airport!)

2. Sunscreen: Too many people assume they can buy sunscreen once they arrive at their destination, but this isn’t always the case – and often when it is – sunscreen is often significantly multiplied in price at your sun-soaked destination! Don’t forget to pack a travel size bottle (100ml or less) if it’s in a carry-on to avoid sunburn or other skin damage.

3. Prescription medication: It’s all too easy to forget to pack prescription medication, but doing so can have serious consequences. Sure, you can find headache relief and other medications at a local pharmacy, but those essential medications prescribed by your physician will be difficult, if not impossible, to find. Make sure you have enough to last for the entire trip. Because these can be so essential, it might be suggested that they are packed farther in advance – either leaving only what you need out before departure, or, packing what you need in a carry-on ahead of time (do not risk losing prescription medication in a checked bag in case of an unfortunate luggage loss or baggage delay!)

4. Passport/ID/etc.: If you’re traveling to another country, forgetting your passport, visa, vaccination, or other important travel documents, could mean getting stuck at the airport and missing your flight. Believe it – it happens! Also remember to download your boarding pass to your phone or if you have a paper document keep it with you at all times as – YES – people do miss their flight while in the airport due to missing boarding passes and even lost passports in the airport! Keep your passport folder, wallet and other valuable documents and items close by at all times – even on the airplane. it is easier to replace lost swimsuits and suitcases than passports and the effects on your vacation are far more impactful when your documents are missing than nearly anything else.

5. Comfortable shoes: It’s tempting to bring only stylish shoes on vacation, but you’ll regret it when your feet are sore after a long day of sightseeing, beach walking, or even just walking through the airport. If you, like many, are tempted, bring a pair of versatile stylish shoes, but don’t forget the essentials – comfort! I also recommend an extra pair of flip flops or similar shoes – they can help in emergencies (if a shoe breaks), if you need to run to the ice machine in the lobby, or walk through unexpected terrains. A great pair of water shoes is also an excellent idea for SO many reasons!

6. Waterproof case: Even if you’re not going to a beach destination, there may be many occasions to protect your phone while you are capturing those insta-worthy shots! Heading to a waterfall, a swimming pool, or even an ATV ride? It can not only protect your phone from water, dirt, and debris, but also help keep your phone close by and offer some hands-free(dom) peace of mind that your phone is close by, easily accessible, and less easily lost, stolen, or forgotten behind.

7. Bug spray: Depending on where you are headed – this could be a true vacation saver. Need I say more?

8. First-aid kit: Accidents happen, so it’s not a bad idea to pack a small first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and other essentials.

9. Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially if you’re going to be in a hot climate. Bring a reusable water bottle that can come in handy in a number of contexts – some people even opt to switch out their aqua for pina coladas!

10. Travel adapter: If you’re traveling to a country with different electrical outlets, make sure to pack a travel adapter so you can still charge your phone, camera, and other devices. Be sure to verify the countries electrical outlets and requirements before leaving to ensure you have what you need. Although many hotels and stays will try to offer these accommodations, you do want to be prepared so that you’re not left spending your vacation time searching for an adapter to charge your phone.

Here’s a bonus to add to the list:

11. Sunglasses: These are number 11 on the list, but number 1, personally, the item forgotten 99% of the times! No matter your destination, the sun will be present in some form. Trust – these will make sightseeing, beaching, driving, flying, EVERYTHING better! It cannot be said how much more expensive sunglasses get when you are in a sunny tourist destination – including in the airport. Sunglasses are the reason this entire list was built!

So this is a list of some of the top ten (plus the real number one) items that are forgotten before we leave home. Sure, you remembered your suitcase, but don’t forget what should be in it! Another tip is to be informed of your destination – contact your travel consultant or advisor to ensure that you have everything you will need to enjoy your vacation and your destination. By making sure you have all of the items that you need, you’ll be equipped for a stress-free vacation!