Neglected Essentials for 7 Travelers: Often-Overlooked Items in Their Luggage
Neglected Essentials for 7 Travelers: Often-Overlooked Items in Their Luggage
Whether it's a snowy retreat in the mountains or a sunny getaway to a tropical paradise, organizing a trip can sometimes feel like a daunting task. From sorting out passports and visas for international travel to double-checking your wardrobe for that perfect outfit for your business meetup, it's easy to miss something crucial. Avoid finding yourself in a bind at your destination by ensuring you don't forget these essential items.
- *Taylor Johnstone*, a home goods connoisseur and founder of Bouquet Boutique,
- *Amelia Davis*, a travel enthusiast and founder of Journey Accompanists,
- *Oliver Hill*, a seasoned travel writer who embarks on 25+ trips annually.
Universal Power Adapter
A universal power adapter becomes indispensable when traveling abroad, and forgetting one can result in unnecessary expenses. According to Taylor Johnstone, home goods expert, "When I'm packing, I often find myself frantically searching for the converter from U.S. to European plugs. Losing it or not being able to locate it usually forces me to purchase one at the airport".
Personal Mobile Charger
The thought of your phone dying in transit is enough to give anyone a headache. "I despise charging my phone via a laptop, so I always carry a separate portable mobile charger along during my travels," Johnstone shares. "Forgetting the charger forces me to shell out exorbitant prices at the airport, or even worse, while traveling."
To supplement a regular mobile charger, travel guru Amelia Davis recommends packing a portable power bank. "One of the most vital items I suggest travelers not to overlook is a backup power bank to recharge their phones or other electronics," she says. "Finally, don't forget to charge your power bank the night before your journey to avoid being stranded in a foreign land without power."
Emergency Cash
While you don't require substantial cash, having some handy, especially while traveling internationally, is essential. According to Johnstone, "I prefer to carry a few euros for small purchases, such as coffee, at the airport between connections, in Paris, where I generally layover. I could use my card, but I enjoy spending those couples of euros I keep in a drawer."
Even if you are embarking on a domestic trip, don't forget to carry a few dollars to tip the person assisting you with your luggage at your resort or at the airport's curbside check-in.
Travel-Sized Toothbrush
Despite using a toothbrush twice daily, most of us still often forget this fundamental item. "I often forget my electric toothbrush," tells us Oliver Hill, a seasoned travel writer, "which then compels me to use the disposable ones from the hotel, leading to major regrets."
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Even the most experienced travelers aren't immune to overlooking fundamental necessities. For instance, Hill once forgot his coat on his way to Finland. "Summer might be in full swing at home, but it was considerably cooler at my destination, requiring me to acquire a coat upon landing," he recalls. To circumvent a similar mishap, always check the weather forecast a week before your trip and ensure your wardrobe is set and ready to go.
Spare Pens
The most basic item often overlooked is pens – and it's easy to understand why. "Keep one in your carry-on for easy access," advises Amelia Davis, "There will be customs or arrival forms to fill out on the plane, and you don't want to borrow a used pen bursting with travel germs to complete them. This is particularly important as having the forms filled out before exiting the plane can help you move to the front of the immigration line following the jet-lagged trip."
Extra Plastic Bags
While you might store your cosmetics and toiletries in plastic bags, catching an extra pair of these is never a bad idea. "An often-forgotten yet beneficial travel item is plastic bags in varying sizes," Davis recommends. "They take little space and are invaluable while traveling for storing damp items, such as swimsuits, airport snacks, or dirty clothing. They may also serve as a lifesaver for organizing small items, preventing you from having to dig to the bottom of your bag at the airport to locate something."
After an exhilarating trip, returning home with cherished memories and unique souvenirs is a delight. As life-long travelers like Taylor Johnstone, Amelia Davis, and Oliver Hill can attest, forgetting essential items during a journey can significantly disrupt the experience. RealSimple magazine offers practical advice for travelers, reminding us to pack a universal power adapter, personal mobile charger, emergency cash, travel-sized toiletries, weather-appropriate clothing, spare pens, and extra plastic bags to avoid any inconveniences during our adventures.