12 Things I Always Forget to Pack (But Never Again)

No matter how many times I travel, there’s always something I forget to pack. It’s never the big things like my passport or shoes because I double and triple-check those. It’s the little, easily overlooked essentials that I only realize I need when it’s too late. And let me tell you, hunting down a travel adapter in a foreign country or trying to find motion sickness pills mid-flight is not my idea of a good time.

After too many of these “oops” moments, I finally made a master travel packing list of the things I always forget so I don’t have to learn the hard way again. If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling for a forgotten must-have when traveling, this list is for you.

12 Things I Always Forget to Pack When Traveling (But Never Again)

3. Travel-Sized Toiletries

I’ve learned that relying on hotel toiletries is a gamble. Some places have great shampoo; others leave my hair looking like a bird’s nest.

I now make sure to pack:

Pro tip: Keep a pre-packed toiletry bag so I never forget these again.

4. Copies of Important Documents

Having a paper backup of your hotel reservations is essential in case your phone dies or you have no Wi-Fi.

Now, I always:

Print a copy of my passport and credit cards
Keep digital backups in my email and phone notes
Save my hotel and flight details offline

A little preparation goes a long way.

5. A Lightweight Jacket or Wrap

Must-Have Items Not to Forget for Your Next Trip, Airplane Travel Outfit, Oversized Wrap

Even when I’m heading to a warm destination, I always regret not bringing an extra layer. I’ve frozen in over-air-conditioned restaurants, shivered on breezy boat rides, and regretted not having something cozy on long flights.

Now, I pack:

7. Snacks and a Reusable Water Bottle

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been stuck on a delayed flight or in a long customs line, absolutely starving. Airport food is expensive, and I don’t always have time to stop and eat.

Now, I always pack:

8. A Small Crossbody Bag or Daypack

I always use a small, lightweight bag that fits just my essentials and can easily tuck into my larger carry-on. I like the secure feeling of having it around my waist and keeps my hands free.

Travel Belt Bag Lo & Sons — **TRAVEL BELT BAG**

This travel bag from Lo & Sons (you can read my review here!) is a true multitasker. It effortlessly transforms from a crossbody into a belt bag, shoulder bag, evening clutch, or even a makeup pouch to tuck inside a larger bag. I also love their Pearl travel bag (which I own in two colors), which can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody, or clutch with a wrist strap.

I love a crossbody bag or belt bag for travel because:

It keeps my hands free for shopping and taking photos
It’s safer in busy areas than a backpack
Many styles now have RFID-blocking pockets for security

I always bring an extra pair of glasses and sunglasses because I would be lost if I accidentally stepped on or misplaced them.

If you wear contacts, I also suggest you pack:

There’s nothing worse than struggling to see when you’re trying to enjoy the sights!

11. A Travel-Sized Stain Remover

Coffee spills, makeup smudges, food stains… you name it, it happens. A mini stain remover wipe has saved many outfits for me.

Perfect for:

Coffee drips from a bumpy flight
A little wine spill at dinner
That mysterious smudge from airport security

12. Earplugs and an Eye Mask

Over the Ear Headphones for Privacy Noise Cancellation on your Next Trip — **APPLE AIRPODS MAX WIRELESS OVER-EAR HEADPHONES**

I love a good hotel, but I’ve had my fair share of loud neighbors and bright hallway lights creeping under the door.

I always bring:

These little things make a big difference when it comes to rest.

What about you? Are there any must-have travel items you’d add to this packing list? Or have you ever realized mid-trip that you forgot something important? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!