11 Things You Are Forgetting To Pack

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. No matter how much effort you put into planning, most of us know that sinking feeling of realising we’ve left something important behind. It happens to the best of us. You’re rushing around, and somehow that one essential item slips your mind to grab. So, I’ve put together a list of the 11 things that you are forgetting to pack. These are the most common items that I have found that people just forget to pack. Think of this as your final checks before you head out the door, ensuring that you’ve left nothing crucial behind.

Now, you might be thinking, “If I forget something, I’ll just buy it when I get there.” And sure, you could. But is that how you want to spend your time and money? Tracking down a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place or paying marked up prices for a travel adapter. Plus, some things aren’t so easily purchased. Forget your prescription medication? That’s a major headache. Or your glasses, may not be so easy to source.

With this quick checklist of the most common things you are forgetting to pack, you can say goodbye to any last minute purchases and panics and hello to a smoother, stress-free trip.

1. Travel Documents (& Copies)

Travel documents are the lifeline of any trip, and forgetting to pack any of them can quickly turn your trip into a logistical nightmare. Your passport, visa, travel insurance, boarding passes, and accommodation reservations should be at the top of your packing list.

To avoid any panic during your trip, keep paper copies of all your essential documents in a designated folder or travel wallet. Make an extra copy of all key travel documents like your passport, visa and insurance, and store them separately from the originals.

Additionally, email digital copies to your email address, should you need to access them if something happens to your phone.

⭐️ Tip Don’t rely on being able to access your travel documents from your phone. Always have paper copies for a smoother travel experience. Finally check whether you’ll be needing your driving license when away, and add this to your travel documentation pack.

2. Toothbrush & Toothpaste

A toothbrush and toothpaste might seem too obvious to forget, but you’d be surprised how often they are forgotten to be packed. It’s so easy to think, “I’ll just grab them before I head out,” only to discover later that they’re still sitting in your bathroom, right where you left them.

⭐️ Tip – Make things simpler by getting a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically for travel. Keep them packed and ready to go in your luggage, so you’ll never have to remember them again. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference!

2. Medication & First Aid Essentials

Medications and first-aid supplies are must-haves for any trip, whether it’s your daily prescription meds, allergy tablets, or a basic first-aid kit. These essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and worry-free getaway. To avoid any last-minute scrambling and remembering, pack your medication well in advance and include a small first-aid kit with items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes etc.

⭐️ Tip – A week before your trip, set a reminder to check your medication supply and order any prescriptions you might need. Once they’re ready, pack them straight into your luggage so you don’t risk forgetting them. It’s a simple step, but it can save you from a lot of stress later! Further tip, don’t forget to keep a copy of your prescription too.

3. Toiletries

Toiletries are one of those things you’re sure you’ll remember, until you arrive and realise you’ve left something behind. Forgotten shampoo, deodorant, or even a razor can throw off your routine.

To keep this from happening, invest in travel-sized versions of your essentials and store them in a clear, TSA-approved toiletry bag. Alternatively, purchase reusable travel bottles to fill with your products and pack them ahead of time.

⭐️ Tip – Before every trip, do a quick inventory of your toiletry bag to ensure nothing is missing.

4. Phone Chargers & Travel Adapters

Phone chargers and travel adapters is one of the most common things that are forgotten to pack, yet they’re absolutely the most essential.

To avoid this mistake, get in the habit of packing your chargers and adapters straightaway in your luggage..

⭐️ Tip – Keep a spare lead and travel adapter dedicated for travel. Store them in a small pouch that stays in your luggage/carry-on at all times, so you’re never caught off guard without them!

5. Sunglasses, Glasses & Contact Lenses

To make sure they don’t get left behind, give them a dedicated spot in your packing routine. Store sunglasses, glasses or your contact lenses in your luggage straightaway. For contact lens wearers, don’t forget to store extra pairs and your cleaning solution.

⭐️ Tip – Create a travel kit specifically for your vision needs. Keep it stocked with your glasses, contact lens essentials, so it’s ready to grab and pack every time you travel. Also, If you are using any items before your trip, write a post it note on your bag as a reminder to pack. If I’m driving to the airport, I keep a post-it note on my car dashboard to remind me to make sure I have grabbed everything when I am leaving the car, including my sunglasses.

6. Warm Clothing

Warm clothing is often forgotten when packing, especially if you’re heading to a sunnier destination. But weather can be unpredictable, and chilly evenings or overly air-conditioned planes can catch even the savviest travellers off guard. To avoid getting cold on your trip, always pack a light jacker, fleece or sweater, even if it seems unnecessary. Also layering this with lightweight tops or thermals can save the day and fold up neatly without taking up too much room in your bag. You’ll thank yourself when the temperature takes a sudden dip!

⭐️ Tip – Always pack something that is warmer, that you can layer with when you feel colder.

7. Waterproof Clothing Or An Umbrella

Rainy days have a knack for sneaking up, making waterproof clothing or an umbrella one of the most frequently forgotten items to pack. Whether it’s a sudden downpour during a city tour or a drizzle while hiking, being unprepared can quickly dampen your spirits. A compact umbrella or a lightweight, packable rain jacket can be lifesavers when the skies open up. To make sure these items don’t get left behind, keep them on your packing checklist.

⭐️ Tip – Keep rainy-day essentials in a dedicated spot, such as a side pocket of your suitcase or daypack, so they’re always within reach. A reusable poncho is another great, space-saving option to toss in your bag for those unexpected showers!

8. Snacks & Reusable Water Bottle

Snacks and a reusable water bottle might not always make your packing list, but they can be absolute game-changers during a trip. Whether you’re stuck with delayed travel plans or venturing to a spot where food options are scarce, having your favourite granola bars, trail mix, or snacks on hand can be a lifesaver. Pair that with a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic bottles.

9. Swimwear

Swimwear is one of those items that’s often forgotten to pack, especially when swimming isn’t the main activity on your trip. But whether it’s a hot tub at your accommodation, an impromptu beach visit, or just relaxing by the pool, having your swimwear on hand can save you from missing out. Plus it really doesn’t take a lot of luggage space.

Even if you think you won’t need it, it’s always better to be prepared. And don’t forget the extras, like a lightweight cover-up or flip-flops, to complete your poolside or beach-ready look!

10. Trouser Belt

A belt might seem like a small, insignificant item, but forgetting to pack a belt can throw off an outfit that really needs one. Whether it’s your go-to jeans or a formal ensemble for a nice dinner, not having a belt can leave you feeling a bit incomplete.

11. Books & Entertainment

Books and entertainment can be lifesavers during long trips or unexpected delays, yet they’re often one of the things forgotten to pack. Whether it’s a gripping novel, a fresh audiobook, or a deck of cards, having a way to pass the time can transform dull moments into something enjoyable.

⭐️ Tip – Start downloading entertainment, podcasts etc. in advance of your trip ready for when you go away.

So To Wrap Up on 11 Things You Are Forgetting To Pack…

Every time travel, run through these 11 things of the things you could be forgetting to pack. Keep these tips in mind, and the only thing you’ll have to focus on is enjoying your trip!

For some more great travel hacks, head to our dedicated Travel Hacks page.