Travelling and vacation time is a very exciting and enjoyable period for everyone. You’re probably very excited and ready to get on that bus or plane until packing time. Packing can feel like such a chore, and remembering everything you need seems impossible since you always seem to forget something. Here’s a checklist that will help you remember the most important items to bring on your trip.

Toiletries

You should never forget your toiletries and hygiene products when you’re traveling, especially if you’re going to a different country, where they may not have the same brands you use. You must bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash. If you use a high-end shampoo and conditioner and not drug store brands, it is recommended that you bring them with you as well. You don’t have to bring the entire bottle; you can get travel-size sets or purchase small, refillable containers for your short vacation. Don’t forget about shower gel and body wash as well. You can bring your own towels, but you don’t have to if you’ll be staying at a hotel, as they usually provide you with these. Don’t forget to bring your skincare products as well.

Underwear and Socks

Even though underwear and socks are not visible clothing items, it is very essential that you don’t forget them. Very often, we tend to either forget to bring underwear and socks altogether or bring less than what we will actually need. Always remember, when it comes to underwear, never rely on washing machines or laundry services. If you believe that you will not be wearing any shoes that require wearing socks, bring a pair or two just in case. Make sure to bring clean underwear for each day you will be spending there.

Clothes and Pajamas

Obviously, you will not forget to bring clothes on your trip, but sometimes you forget some essential pieces or bring clothing items that are not weather appropriate and are left with nothing to wear on your trip. No matter where you are going or how hot the weather is there, always bring at least one light jacket. Always check the forecast for the country you will be visiting and plan your outfits accordingly. Instead of packing random items, try to pack entire outfits, as this is more efficient. Bring two extra tops and an extra bottom for emergencies, even if you may not get a chance to wear them.

Shoes

Footwear, in general, is always an issue when you are going on a trip. You may forget to bring certain pairs or bring pairs of shoes that you most definitely will not be wearing. First off, don’t forget to bring flip-flops or any other slippers to wear when you’re in your hotel room. Make sure to bring along a pair of travel shoes if your destination facilitates a lot of exploring or sightseeing. Instead of packing these shoes, you can wear them when you’re on the bus or plane because they tend to be very comfortable. Always make sure that for each outfit, there’s matching footwear.

Hairbrush and Hair Stylers

You should always remember to bring your hairbrush and hair stylers along with you on your trips. You can find travel-size hairbrushes that you can purchase instead of bringing your hairbrush with you. If you like to blow dry your hair and/or straighten or curl it, don’t forget your blow-dryer, flat iron, and curling iron. If you will be using heat, don’t forget to pack your heat protection. Also, if you use any hair products, like gels, leave-ins, or hair creams, don’t forget to pack those as well. 

Medications

Don’t forget to pack your medications to always be on the safe side. If you suffer from any chronic diseases, make sure to have enough pills to last you the entire trip. Make sure to bring along a painkiller in case you have a headache or other pain. If you suffer from allergies or might have an allergic reaction, make sure to bring along your anti-allergens. Some countries do not even provide medication without a prescription, so be sure to bring your own.

Swimming suits

Not many people are guilty of forgetting about this one, but a few forget to bring along their bathing suits. You must not forget to bring along your swimming gear in order to be able to enjoy all the beach and ocean fun. You can also bring along your snorkeling kit in order to be able to explore the coral reef.

Entertainment

Flights or road trips can be a little boring or tiring, and you might want to bring along some entertainment. You can bring along your favorite book to read, download some music to listen to, or download a movie to watch on your phone or laptop. You can also bring a few board games or card games to have fun with your friends or relatives on that trip. If you have space in your luggage, bring as many entertainment items as you can.

Water and Snacks

People often forget very essential items when traveling, like water and snacks. It is highly recommended for you to bring along your own water bottle for the trip and a few snacks in case you get hungry. This is very important, especially if your trip is a long one. You can bring some sandwiches, chocolate bars or bags of chips, but it is preferable to get something that will give you energy. Try packing a couple of protein bars with you.

Final Thoughts

Packing might seem like such a chore, but it is very important for you to go through this checklist to make sure you remember everything. A few extra items that you shouldn’t leave behind are your chargers, cash, passport, and credit cards. A helpful tip is to make a detailed list of all the items you have packed so that when you’re repacking to come back home, you don’t forget anything. If a different currency is used at your destination, remember to convert a few bills before traveling to have cash on you for emergencies.