June 28, 2024 Most Forgotten Travel Items
Packing for a trip can feel like a puzzle, can’t it? You’re excited about your adventure, carefully planning outfits and mapping out your itinerary—but then it hits you mid-flight or at your hotel: you forgot something important. The most forgotten travel items might be your phone charger, your favorite travel pillow, or worse, your travel documents. Suddenly, that seamless trip you envisioned has a hiccup, and you’re left scrambling to fix it.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Studies show that most travelers forget at least one key item when packing, and it’s not always because of carelessness. Sometimes, it’s the sheer overwhelm of preparing for a trip—there’s just so much to remember! Other times, it’s those small, everyday items we take for granted, like toothpaste or headphones, that are the first to be left behind.
And let’s not forget the cost of forgetting. Leaving behind a universal adapter on an international trip could mean spending hours searching for one in a foreign city (and paying way more than you would back home). Forgetting your sunscreen could leave you with an unexpected—and uncomfortable—souvenir: sunburn. These seemingly small oversights can snowball into bigger inconveniences that eat up time, money, and energy.
But don’t worry—there’s a solution. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone just starting to explore the world, you can avoid those frustrating “oops” moments with a bit of preparation. In this guide, we’ll highlight the 15 most forgotten travel items, why they’re absolutely essential, and how to make sure you never leave home without them again.
So, grab a cup of coffee, bookmark this page, and let’s ensure your next trip is stress-free and perfectly packed!
Before you get started, let’s test your knowledge!
Loading…1. Phone Chargers & Charging Cables
Why it’s essential:
Your phone is your ultimate travel companion—it’s your map, your boarding pass, your camera, and even your personal concierge. But none of that matters if the battery dies. Imagine needing to navigate your way through a new city, call an Uber, or confirm your hotel reservation, only to realize your phone is dead, and your charger? Sitting back at home on the counter.
My experience:
Oh, I’ve been there. On one of my first solo trips, I flew to Berlin, buzzing with excitement to explore the city’s vibrant streets and iconic sights. After an 11-hour journey, I pulled out my phone to check directions to my Airbnb—only to see the dreaded 5% battery notification pop up. No problem, I thought. I’ll just charge it when I get there. Well, guess what? My charger was still plugged into the wall next to my bed… back home.
I spent half of my first day trekking from store to store, asking in broken German if they had an iPhone charger. It wasn’t until the third shop that I found one—and I paid twice the normal price because, at that point, I was desperate. Lesson learned.
Now, I’m paranoid about chargers. I keep an extra one in my carry-on, another in my suitcase, and a portable power bank in my backpack. A bit excessive? Maybe. But I’ve never been caught without one since!
Pro tips to avoid this mishap:
- Always pack two chargers: one for your carry-on and one for your main luggage.
- Invest in a high-capacity power bank for emergencies (it’s a lifesaver during long flights or layovers).
- Create a “tech pouch” with all your cables, adapters, and devices in one place—easy to grab and pack.
2. Travel Adapters
Why it’s essential:
If you’re heading overseas, don’t underestimate the importance of a travel adapter. The world runs on different plugs and voltages, so without one, you won’t be able to charge your phone, camera, laptop, or any other essential electronics. It’s the kind of thing you don’t realize you need until you’re staring at a foreign outlet, wondering why it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.
My experience:
I’ll never forget my first trip to Paris. I had everything planned—the museums I wanted to visit, the cafés I was going to try, and even a list of “hidden gems” I’d discovered on travel blogs. But guess what I didn’t plan for? The fact that French outlets are completely different from the ones in the U.S.
I thought I could just plug my charger into the wall like I do at home. Nope. I ended up borrowing an adapter from the hotel front desk—except they only had one, and I had to return it after an hour. That meant my phone was always on low battery, and my camera barely got charged. Talk about frustrating!
After that, I made it a rule to carry a universal travel adapter that works in multiple countries. These nifty devices have saved me countless headaches, especially during trips with multiple stops across Europe and Asia.
Pro tips for hassle-free charging abroad:
- Buy a universal adapter with multiple USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.
- Check the voltage requirements for your destination—many countries use higher voltages, so you’ll need an adapter with a built-in voltage converter for certain electronics.
- Keep your adapter in your carry-on—you never know when you’ll need to charge something at the airport.
Travel hack: If you’re staying in hotels, check the back of the TV for a USB port. Many modern TVs have them, and you can use them to charge your devices in a pinch!?
3. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Why it’s essential:
This seems like an obvious one, but you’d be surprised how many travelers forget these basic items in the rush of packing. And honestly, few things are more annoying than arriving at your destination after a long trip and realizing you can’t brush your teeth. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also set the tone for a less-than-fresh start to your trip.
My experience:
Let me paint you a picture: I had just arrived in Tokyo after a grueling 13-hour flight. My first instinct after checking into the hotel? Freshen up. I reached into my toiletry bag and… no toothbrush. Nada. I’d left it sitting on my bathroom sink at home.
At first, I figured I’d grab one the next morning, but jet lag had other plans. By 3 a.m., I was wide awake and feeling gross. I ended up wandering into a 24-hour convenience store in Shinjuku, desperately scanning shelves for a toothbrush and toothpaste. The good news? Japan’s convenience stores are incredible, and I managed to find what I needed. The bad news? That could’ve all been avoided if I’d packed smarter.
Now, I always have a travel-sized toothbrush kit in my carry-on bag. It’s become my go-to for long flights, overnight layovers, and those unexpected “I need to freshen up” moments.
Pro tips to avoid forgetting this travel essential:
- Keep a dedicated travel toiletry kit that stays in your suitcase—restock it after every trip so it’s always ready to go.
- Carry a travel toothbrush and mini toothpaste in your carry-on for emergencies.
- Consider disposable toothbrushes with built-in toothpaste if you’re tight on space (perfect for light packers).
Bonus tip: A toothbrush and toothpaste aren’t just for dental hygiene—they’re also great for a quick freshen-up during long flights. Trust me, your seatmates will thank you!
4. Reusable Water Bottle
Why it’s essential:
Staying hydrated is key when you’re traveling, whether you’re exploring city streets, hiking scenic trails, or just spending hours in airports. Buying bottled water might seem like the easy option, but it can quickly add up—and let’s not forget the environmental impact of all that plastic waste. A reusable water bottle is not just practical but also eco-friendly, ensuring you’re prepared wherever your adventures take you.
My experience:
On a road trip through California’s national parks, I made the rookie mistake of assuming I’d “just grab water along the way.” Big mistake. Halfway through a hike in Joshua Tree, I ran out of water with no refill station in sight. It was hot, dry, and honestly a little nerve-wracking. That day, I learned two important lessons: always carry more water than you think you need, and never travel without a reusable water bottle.
Fast forward to my most recent trip to Bali, where I brought along a collapsible water bottle. Not only was it a breeze to refill at water stations, but it also saved me money and kept me hydrated while trekking through rice fields and lounging on the beach. Plus, it folded up neatly when not in use, which was a huge win for saving space in my daypack.
Pro tips to stay hydrated on the go:
- Choose a collapsible bottle if space is limited, or a vacuum-insulated one to keep drinks cold on hot days.
- Check ahead to see if your destination has water refill stations—many airports and tourist spots now offer free filtered water.
- For international travel, consider a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure you’re drinking safe water.
Travel hack: Need cold water but don’t have a fridge? Fill your bottle halfway and freeze it overnight. Before heading out, top it off with water for icy hydration that lasts all day.
5. Headphones or Earbuds
Why it’s essential:
Whether it’s to drown out the hum of airplane engines, escape noisy travel companions, or just enjoy some music or podcasts, headphones are a traveler’s best friend. Forgetting them can turn a peaceful journey into a long, noisy ordeal. Trust me, your sanity will thank you for packing these.
My experience:
On a long-haul flight to Singapore, I realized I had left my earbuds at home. The in-flight entertainment system? Not bad. The cheap, uncomfortable headphones they provided? Let’s just say they weren’t exactly “noise-canceling.” Worse, the chatter from the family behind me and the crying toddler a few rows up turned the trip into a test of patience. I spent 13 hours wishing I’d double-checked my carry-on.
These days, my headphones are the first thing I pack. I’ve also invested in noise-canceling ones, which have been a game-changer. On my last trip, they blocked out everything: the crying baby, the loud conversations, and even the airplane’s constant droning. It was pure bliss, and I finally got some sleep on a flight.
Pro tips for the ultimate audio experience:
- Invest in noise-canceling headphones—they’re worth every penny, especially on long flights or train rides.
- Keep a backup pair of earbuds in your carry-on, just in case your primary ones fail.
- If you’re traveling with wireless headphones, bring the charging case or cable so you don’t run out of juice mid-trip.
Travel hack: Many airlines still use the double-pronged headphone jacks. Carry an adapter to use your own headphones with their in-flight systems—your ears will thank you!
6. Medications and First Aid Kit
Why it’s essential:
Your health should always be a top priority when you travel. Whether it’s prescription medications, over-the-counter painkillers, or a simple first aid kit, these items can make the difference between an enjoyable trip and a stressful one. While pharmacies exist almost everywhere, finding what you need in an unfamiliar place (or a different language) can be daunting.
My experience:
Let me tell you about the time I underestimated the importance of packing pain relievers. I was in Thailand, enjoying a packed day of exploring temples and eating incredible street food, when a splitting headache hit me out of nowhere. I realized I’d forgotten to pack ibuprofen, and navigating the aisles of a pharmacy in a foreign language wasn’t easy. After lots of miming and Google Translate, I finally found what I needed, but I wasted a good chunk of my afternoon.
Now, I pack a small travel pouch with all the essentials: ibuprofen, allergy meds, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and even motion sickness tablets. On my last trip to Peru, this kit saved me when I got altitude sickness while hiking Machu Picchu. Having everything I needed on hand was a huge relief and let me focus on enjoying the experience instead of worrying about how to feel better.
Pro tips for a worry-free trip:
- Keep medications in their original packaging to avoid confusion or trouble with customs.
- Pack a basic first aid kit, including adhesive bandages, antiseptic cream, and tweezers—you never know when you’ll need it.
- If you take prescription medication, bring extra doses in case of delays, and always carry it in your hand luggage.
Travel hack: Use a pill organizer to keep everything in one place. Label each section to avoid confusion, especially if you’re traveling for an extended period.
7. Travel Documents (Passport, IDs, and Itineraries)
Why it’s essential:
Your passport, ID, and travel documents are the ultimate “don’t leave home without them” items. Without these, your trip might not even happen! Whether you’re flying internationally, checking into a hotel, or picking up a rental car, these documents are your key to a smooth journey. Forgetting them—or worse, losing them—can cause delays, missed flights, or a complete travel disaster.
My experience:
I’ll never forget the sinking feeling I had at the airport in New York. I was flying to Montreal for a short weekend getaway, but when I reached the check-in counter, I realized my passport was still sitting in a drawer at home. My stomach dropped. I tried to explain to the airline staff that I’d just forgotten it and asked if my driver’s license would work instead. The answer? A big, fat no.
After some panicked calls and a very expensive same-day courier service (shoutout to my incredibly patient roommate for saving the day), I managed to catch a later flight. But I lost half a day of my trip and a lot of peace of mind. Now, I triple-check my documents before every trip.
Pro tips for safeguarding your travel documents:
- Keep all your important documents (passport, ID, boarding passes, etc.) in a dedicated travel wallet or organizer.
- Make digital copies of your passport, visa, and itinerary. Email them to yourself and save them in cloud storage (like Google Drive) for easy access if something goes wrong.
- Always check document requirements for your destination in advance—some countries require visas or proof of vaccinations.
Travel hack: If you’re nervous about losing your passport, consider wearing a hidden travel pouch under your clothes. It’s a discreet and safe way to keep your most valuable items close.
8. Sunscreen
Why it’s essential:
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach vacations. Whether you’re hiking, exploring a bustling city, or sitting by the pool, UV rays can harm your skin—even on cloudy days. Forgetting sunscreen can lead to painful sunburns, premature aging, or worse, long-term skin damage.
My experience:
On my first trip to Mexico, I thought I’d skip the sunscreen for the day. I figured I’d mostly be in shaded markets and wouldn’t need it. Big mistake. By the end of the afternoon, my shoulders were bright red, and by evening, the burn was so bad I could barely move without wincing. The rest of my trip was spent slathered in aloe vera, avoiding the sun, and regretting my decision.
Now, sunscreen is one of my non-negotiables. I pack a small, travel-sized sunscreen in my daypack, even if I don’t think I’ll need it. It’s come in handy on countless trips, from sunny hikes in Arizona to cloudy but UV-heavy days in Iceland.
Pro tips to stay protected:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Look for travel-sized options that fit TSA requirements (3.4 ounces or less) for carry-on bags.
- Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
Travel hack: For beach trips, pack a stick sunscreen for easy application on your face and a spray bottle for hard-to-reach spots like your back.
9. Snacks
Why it’s essential:
Hunger strikes when you least expect it—whether you’re stuck on a delayed flight, navigating a long bus ride, or exploring a city where meal options are limited. Having snacks on hand can save you from those hangry moments and keep your energy up during long travel days. Plus, let’s face it: airport food is ridiculously overpriced, and convenience store options aren’t always appealing.
My experience:
I once had a 7-hour layover in Doha, Qatar, thinking I’d easily grab food at the airport. What I didn’t account for was how expensive everything would be or how specific my cravings were at 3 a.m. The result? I spent a small fortune on a subpar sandwich and chips, wishing I’d packed some snacks from home.
Now, I never travel without snacks. On my last trip to Peru, I packed protein bars, mixed nuts, and dried fruit, which kept me fueled while hiking Machu Picchu and saved me from overpriced snacks at the airport. Bonus: snacks can double as an icebreaker if you’re meeting new people while traveling—everyone loves a little treat!
Pro tips for satisfying travel munchies:
- Choose non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, or trail mix—they’re lightweight, nutritious, and easy to pack.
- If you’re flying, avoid snacks that can melt (like chocolate) or spill easily.
- For long-haul flights, pack snacks with a mix of carbs, protein, and fats to keep you full and energized.
Travel hack: Bring an empty resealable bag in your carry-on. Use it to store leftovers from in-flight meals or to keep your snacks organized.
10. Travel Pillow
Why it’s essential:
Long flights, train rides, or bus journeys can leave you feeling exhausted, and trying to sleep while sitting upright is a challenge. Enter the travel pillow—a small but mighty tool that can transform an uncomfortable trip into a more restful experience. Forgetting this little gem often means battling stiff necks, awkward sleeping positions, and spending hours envying the person next to you who remembered theirs.
My experience:
Let me tell you about the time I flew from San Francisco to Tokyo on a 12-hour overnight flight. I thought, “I don’t need a travel pillow; I’ll just lean against the window.” Big mistake. I spent most of the flight tossing, turning, and using my jacket as a makeshift headrest (which didn’t work at all). By the time I landed, my neck was so stiff I could barely turn my head—and to make matters worse, I had an entire day of sightseeing ahead of me.
Fast forward to today, and my travel pillow is the first thing I grab before a long trip. On my last red-eye flight to Iceland, my memory foam travel pillow was a lifesaver. I managed to sleep for a solid 6 hours, and when I landed, I felt fresh and ready to explore.
Pro tips for maximum comfort:
- Choose a memory foam travel pillow for optimal neck support.
- Opt for an inflatable travel pillow if you’re short on space—it’s lightweight and easy to pack.
- Consider a travel pillow with adjustable straps to keep it in place while you sleep.
Travel hack: Not a fan of traditional U-shaped pillows? Try a wrap-around scarf pillow or a convertible travel pillow that can double as lumbar support.
11. Ziploc Bags or Packing Cubes
Why it’s essential:
Packing is an art, and staying organized is key to stress-free travel. Ziploc bags and packing cubes are absolute game-changers for keeping your belongings neat and preventing spills or messes. Plus, they make unpacking (and repacking) a breeze—you won’t have to rummage through your entire suitcase just to find a pair of socks.
My experience:
I’ll admit, I used to be the kind of traveler who just tossed everything into a suitcase and hoped for the best. That is, until the “great shampoo spill” of my trip to Greece. I opened my suitcase to find my shampoo had leaked all over my clothes. Let’s just say starting a vacation by doing laundry in a hotel sink isn’t exactly ideal.
After that, I invested in packing cubes for clothes and started using Ziploc bags for toiletries. On a recent trip to Thailand, these tools kept everything organized and mess-free—even when my sunscreen decided to explode mid-flight. Bonus: packing cubes also helped me fit way more into my suitcase than I thought was possible!
Pro tips for staying organized:
- Use packing cubes to separate clothes by category (e.g., tops, pants, undergarments) or by outfit.
- Store liquids in leak-proof Ziploc bags to prevent spills.
- Use a smaller Ziploc bag for chargers and cables to avoid tangled wires.
Travel hack: Save space by rolling your clothes before placing them in packing cubes. It keeps everything compact and wrinkle-free!
12. Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitizer
Why it’s essential:
When you’re traveling, you’ll touch everything from airplane tray tables to subway railings to public bathroom doors. And let’s be real—those surfaces aren’t exactly the cleanest. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer are your first line of defense against germs, keeping you feeling fresh and reducing your chances of getting sick while on the go.
My experience:
On a flight to Morocco, I absentmindedly placed my snacks directly on the tray table—only to later learn that airplane tray tables are some of the germiest surfaces you can touch. Yikes! By the end of the trip, I wasn’t feeling great, and I couldn’t help but wonder if that little oversight played a role.
Since then, wet wipes and hand sanitizer have become staples in my carry-on. Whether it’s wiping down a plane seat, refreshing after a long day, or cleaning my hands before a street food feast, these items are lifesavers. On my last trip to India, they were especially handy for sanitizing after riding in tuk-tuks and navigating crowded markets.
Pro tips for staying germ-free:
- Pack a small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) to kill germs on the go.
- Use antibacterial wet wipes to clean surfaces like airplane armrests, hotel remotes, and restaurant tables.
- Keep a few individually wrapped wet wipes in your daypack for quick refreshes.
Travel hack: If you’re short on space, look for compressed towel tablets—just add water, and they expand into full-sized wipes!
13. A Lightweight Jacket or Scarf
Why it’s essential:
Weather can be unpredictable, and planes, trains, or buses are often much colder than you expect. Packing a lightweight jacket or scarf can save you from freezing in an air-conditioned space or staying uncomfortable when the temperature drops unexpectedly. These versatile items are not just about warmth—they can double as a travel pillow, blanket, or even a stylish accessory.
My experience:
I learned this lesson the hard way during a layover in Dubai. Despite the desert heat outside, the airport was like an icebox. I had packed for the sunny weather ahead, completely forgetting to bring anything warm. I ended up buying an overpriced sweatshirt from an airport store just to stop my teeth from chattering.
Now, I always pack a lightweight jacket or a cozy scarf, no matter the destination. On a recent trip to Istanbul, my scarf turned out to be the MVP—it kept me warm on a chilly Bosphorus cruise, doubled as a blanket on the plane, and added a stylish touch to my outfits. It’s one of those items that’s endlessly useful, and I never travel without it anymore.
Pro tips for staying warm and prepared:
- Opt for a packable jacket that folds into a small pouch—it’s easy to carry and perfect for layering.
- Bring a large scarf or pashmina that can double as a blanket, head cover, or accessory.
- Choose neutral colors that match most of your outfits for added versatility.
Travel hack: If your suitcase is already full, wear your jacket or scarf while traveling—it’ll save space and keep you cozy on the go!
14. Books or E-Readers
Why it’s essential:
Long flights, train rides, and layovers can be tedious without something to keep your mind occupied. A good book or an e-reader filled with your favorite titles can help pass the time and make those long hours fly by. Plus, reading is a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
My experience:
I once found myself on an 8-hour train ride through the Scottish Highlands with no Wi-Fi, no downloads on my phone, and zero entertainment. It was a beautiful ride, sure, but after the first hour, I was bored out of my mind. Since then, I’ve made a point to always carry a book or load up my Kindle before a trip.
On a recent flight to Australia, I read half a novel before landing—and it felt like the shortest long-haul flight ever. Not only did it keep me entertained, but it also helped me relax and forget about the usual travel stress.
Pro tips for readers on the go:
- Invest in a lightweight e-reader (like a Kindle or Kobo) to carry multiple books without the added weight.
- Download books ahead of time—Wi-Fi may not always be available when you want to add a new title.
- If you prefer physical books, pack one that’s compact and lightweight to save space.
Travel hack: Audiobooks are a great alternative if you don’t want to carry a physical or digital book. Download a few onto your phone, pop in your headphones, and enjoy your favorite stories hands-free.
15. Spare Cash and Credit Cards
Why it’s essential:
In an increasingly digital world, it’s easy to rely on credit cards and mobile payments. But technology isn’t foolproof, and not every destination accepts cards. Whether you’re at a small market in Morocco or a cash-only café in Rome, having spare cash is a lifesaver. And carrying an extra credit card can be a safety net if one gets lost, stolen, or unexpectedly declined.
My experience:
On a trip to Vietnam, I was caught off guard when I arrived at a street vendor to pay for my pho, only to find out they didn’t take cards. I had no cash on hand and ended up having to borrow money from a friend until I could find an ATM. It was embarrassing and inconvenient—definitely not something I wanted to repeat.
Since then, I’ve made it a rule to carry a mix of local currency and U.S. dollars (or another widely accepted currency) when I travel. On my last trip to Prague, my spare cash came in handy when my card was declined at a souvenir shop, and my backup credit card saved me when the ATM network went down.
Pro tips for financial peace of mind:
- Always carry a mix of local currency and widely accepted currency (e.g., USD or Euros) for emergencies.
- Keep a backup credit card in a separate location from your main wallet in case one gets lost or stolen.
- Research your destination ahead of time to see if cash is commonly used—some places, like Japan, are still heavily cash-based.
Travel hack: Use a money belt or hidden pouch to store spare cash and your backup card securely. It’s a discreet way to carry your valuables without worrying about pickpockets.
Final Thoughts
Packing smart is all about thinking ahead and being prepared for the unexpected. These 15 commonly forgotten travel items may seem small, but they can make a huge difference in your comfort, convenience, and overall travel experience. From phone chargers to sunscreen, each item serves a purpose, helping you avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what really matters: enjoying your adventure.
So, as you prep for your next trip, don’t forget to revisit this guide. Your future self will thank you when everything you need is right there in your bag, exactly when you need it.
Disclosure:
Affiliate Links: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services I use and believe will add value to my readers.
Experience & Pricing: The information, insights, and recommendations provided are based on my personal experience at the time of writing. Please note that prices, services, and availability may vary over time. Always check current prices and details before making travel plans or purchasing decisions.
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