Going on a vacation can be super exciting. But in that excitement and our last-minute haphazard packing, many of us tend to forget to pack certain things. From the seemingly inconsequential to the absolute essential, here are items that you might forget while packing to go on your holiday.
1. Universal Plug Adapter
If you are travelling to other countries, then packing a universal travel plug adapter is crucial. You might find yourself facing a square plug point at your destination, in which case your round pin mobile or laptop charger that won’t fit. Then you’ll have to call up your hotel reception to see if they have one or go around looking for one in stores.
Source: diytrade.com
2. Cash
Yes carrying too much cash on you or stowing it in your luggage is not very safe. But relying solely on your credit and debit cards is not very smart. There are still many places on earth where they only accept cash. So carrying a reasonable amount of cash with you is important.
Don’t keep all your cash in one place. Spread it out – keep some cash hidden in your main luggage and some in your wallet. That way, even if something unfortunate happens, like you lose your wallet, you still have some cash in the main luggage to help you through.
Source: thehindubusinessline.com
3. Medicines
It is a good idea to carry some general medication to deal with unforeseen circumstances. So carry medicines to deal with headaches and fever, any allergic reactions that you might encounter, and some pain killers. And if you’re on the contraceptive pill, then you better not forget that either!
Source: benvandervelde.com
4. Tampons and Pads
Okay so in all the excitement of packing, many women forget that they’ll be getting their periods while on holiday. Even if you won’t be getting your periods, it is always a good idea to carry a pack of tampons. If your friend gets her periods and has forgotten to bring the essentials, you can help her out.
Source: healthyfoodhouse.com
5. Plastic and Ziplock Bags
As bizarre as this may sound, carrying a couple of plastic bags and covers of different sizes is a great idea. You never know when you’ll need them. From stuffing damp clothing to protecting your phone and camera from getting wet in case of heavy rain, plastic covers are a must-have on a holiday.
Source: explosion.com
6. Sunglasses
While swapping their regular handbag for a fancy holiday handbag, many people tend to leave their sunglasses behind. This can be a disaster, especially if you’re headed for a beach destination. Of course you could pick up some cheap shades at your destination. But would you rather take photos wearing your swanky designer shades or some cheap rip-offs you had no choice but to buy?
Source: tumblr.com
7. Mobile Phone Charger
Another essential thing that most people seem to forget is their mobile phone charger. Sure you can go around asking if they have a spare charger at the reception, or you can take your charger with you and not fret about making your phone’s battery last.
[sc:mediad]
Source: reviewshots.com
8. Extra pair of contact lenses
If you wear contacts then you must carry an extra pair while travelling. It’s all about being safe than sorry. Having an extra pair is your way of ensuring you don’t spend your vacation time crawling on the floor of your hotel room, searching for a lost contact lens. And of course, do not forget the contact lens solution!
10. Pocket Diary
Yes you have your mobile phone with all your contacts. But carry a pocket diary or a small notepad with all your emergency contact numbers listed, with the name and address of your hotel (and any landmark) noted down. This is to ensure that even if you lose or misplace your phone, you can still easily find your way back to your hotel or contact any of your friends or acquaintances for help.
Source: blogspot.com
11. A Photocopy of All Your Documents
Carry a photocopy of your passport, hotel booking confirmation, and even your birth certificate. While you can probably access all this from your phone or laptop, having a hard copy can come in handy.
12. Deodorant
If you’ll be on a long flight, then have mercy on your fellow passengers and pack a deodorant. Smelling unpleasant is terribly embarrassing and you definitely do not want to end up being the person that no one wants to sit next to.
Source: youngadventuress.com
13. Pen
It is amazing how much technology has taken over our lives. So much so that, people who remember to pack their cell phones and tablets forget to pack something as basic as a pen. From the airport to checking-in at your hotel, you’re going to need a pen to perform some simple processes. So carry a good quality pen that writes smoothly.
Source: huffpost.com
14. Toiletries
Toiletries include toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, and shampoo. While most good hotels provide these, if you have sensitive skin, then you might want to stick to your own products. One way to ensure there is no shampoo explosion in your suitcase is to opt for solid shampoos. Solid shampoos look like soap and are very travel friendly.
Source: wordpress.com
15. Straightener
While many hotels provide a blow dryer, you won’t be so lucky finding a straightening iron. So if your hair needs to be straightened after a wash, then don’t forget to pack your straightener or you’ll be sporting fluffy unkempt hair in your holiday snaps.
Source: sheknows.com
Use this article as a checklist to pack for your next holiday. Start packing well in advance instead of packing at the last minute to avoid forgetting important items such as tickets, passport, and other such essentials.
