Ok, trust me on this one. The last thing you want to happen is to set out on your trip and realize you left something important at home. That is a horrible feeling and can really make things difficult for you depending on where you are and what you forgot. I have had this happen to me before and it’s something I wish to forget. So whatever you do, make sure you have the following 13 items with you before you leave!
Money
Make sure to bring the proper currency of the country you are traveling to with you. Most money exchange booths with charge hefty fees to convert your money. You can use an ATM machine when you arrive or get a card with a low transaction fee. You can also get ones that have 0% fees.
Pro tip: Tell your bank that you are traveling to another country before you leave. This will prevent them from deactivating your credit card when you try to use it. Also, make sure your card has an electronic chip, some places do not accept the magnetic strip so swiping your card will not be an option!
Universal Travel Plug Adapter
To use your electronics when in international countries, you must have a universal travel plug adapter. When I first started traveling, I made this mistake and did not bring one. It can be very difficult to find one last minute when you need to charge your electronics! You need to make sure the adapter you use is safety certified too.
This adapter comes with a 6.3 amp fuse which will ensure complete safety for all your devices. It also includes built-in safety shutters which covers you for over 150 countries (US, EU, UK, AUS) and for the low cost of these travel adapters, you can’t go wrong. Make sure to buy one of these before setting out on your trip. You can find this adapter on Amazon here.
Passport and Travel Documents
You want to make sure you have all your travel documents and passport with you. Have these things with you at all times. It’s a good idea to make photocopies and/or save copies onto a hard drive or memory stick. Also, send yourself an email with the necessary information just in case you either lose or forget them.
TSA Approved Luggage Locks
With security and thefts being so high these days in airports, I highly recommend you use TSA Approved luggage lock. What makes these locks better than a normal lock? If you use a TSA approved luggage lock, here are the advantages:
- Designed to be the toughest, most durable lock with a lifetime guarantee
- Cable lock flexibility can handle situations that shackles can’t
- Always relocked and protected, designed so the TSA agent must re-lock in order to remove the key
- Decreases the chance of theft and search from TSA agents
You can get these luggage locks on Amazon by clicking here.
Travel Insurance
When you choose to travel, you take the risk of lost luggage, flight cancellations, reservation cancellations, theft, and many other situations which may cause anxiety. Planning a vacation is stressful enough without having to worry about something going wrong. Purchasing travel insurance will ensure that you are compensated if anything goes wrong on your trip. When trying to determine whether or not to purchase travel insurance, keep in mind the points listed below which may make your decision much easier.
Many forms of travel insurance will cover you in the following areas
Medical Emergencies – Travel insurance will provide you with financial help should you encounter a medical emergency while traveling. If you become ill or are injured while on vacation, your travel insurance will provide you with coverage in both situations.
Cancellations or Delays – If for any reason (beyond your control) your trip is canceled or delayed your travel insurance will provide you with financial coverage. This includes coverage if your airline goes bankrupt or out of service. Your travel insurance will either compensate you for the money you lost or provide you with new means of transportation.
Theft – If anything belonging to you is stolen while you are on vacation, your travel insurance will provide you with financial assistance to replace the items which were stolen.
Damage or Loss of Personal Property – This is likely to happen while on vacation. If your luggage is lost or damaged while on vacation, your travel insurance will definitely cover at least some percentage of the property that is missing. Depending on the insurance plan, it may financially cover all the items that are missing.
Lost Passport – If you lose your passport or it is stolen while you are on vacation, travel insurance will provide you with the means to get a temporary one. Your travel insurance company will inform you on how to get in contact with your country embassy so that you can arrange to receive a temporary passport. Depending on the insurance plan you choose, you may be fully or partially covered in the areas listed above. Choose your policy according to what you think the possibility will be that you will require the assistance on your trip.
For many vacationers, travel insurance eliminates any worry that an unforeseen circumstance may arise in which you do not have the money or means to take care of. Travel insurance helps you relax and enjoy your trip without agonizing over things that may or may not go wrong. Relaxing and enjoying? Isn’t that why you planned the vacation in the first place?
My recommended choice is World Nomads Travel Insurance. Click on the link for more information.
Get Vaccinated Before You Leave
Most countries require you to be vaccinated for yellow fever before entering the country. It is also great to get a vaccination against diseases such as malaria, hepatitis A/B, cholera among many others in order to stay healthy while traveling.
Vaccinations ensure that you are protected in case of outbreaks. Vaccinations should be done at least a month before the traveling rather than on the final few days before traveling. This is because most vaccines take a while before they are able to offer full protection. It’s always best to prevent sickness and disease before it happens.
Carry On Luggage That Meets Airline Guidelines
I would recommend the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage. The dimensions are 14.4 x 9.2 x 21.6 inches and it only weighs 7.14 lbs which will meet most airlines carry on luggage guidelines. It’s also a great choice for international travel, where it’s a size that’s accepted as a carry-on for most international flights. Some other features include:
- Hard Shell with Scratch-Resistant Finish
- Fully Lined Interior with Divider and 3 Zippered Pockets
- Telescoping Handle & Securely Mounted Short Handle
- Four Double Spinner Wheels
- Great price! You can check for the best price on Amazon here.
Travel Headphones
You will want to make sure you have a decent pair of noise-canceling travel headphones. If you are getting on a long flight, you will need these. It’s important to have a great pair of headphones for travel that is comfortable, lightweight, and durable. There are so many options and variables for buying a great set of headphones. I have used many styles and types of headphones over the years and can recommend these for the best quality and price.
1. Paww WaveSound 3 Bluetooth Headphones – Great Price And Quality
The WaveSound 3 Over-Ear Headphones are designed with travelers in mind. They are considered the #1 headphones for air travel because they are quite versatile and conveniently come with an airplane adapter. Simply plug the adapter into the outlet on the plane to listen to the movie or show that is being played on the screen.
If you prefer to listen to music or watch videos/movies on your smartphone or laptop, you can always plug the auxiliary cord that is included with the airplane headphones into your device as desired. The headphones fold right up and are accompanied by a compact carrying case, making it simple for carry on luggage bags. Also should mention the Paww Wavesound 3 Bluetooth Headphones are a top rated seller on Amazon and get great reviews!
Travel Journal
Travel journals are perfect for keeping information about trips you have taken, what you learned and the experiences you had. Journals offer a connection between your mind and written words, it is the perfect way to get out your thoughts or feelings onto paper. It doesn’t matter where you’re going or who you’re traveling with, a journal can go with you anywhere.
Cell Phone Charger
If I had a dime for every person who has forgotten their cell phone charger on a trip, I would be rich! One of the worst feelings in the world is when you’re on a getaway, listening to music with your earbuds in, or need to make an important call and you realize your phone has a low battery. Don’t let this happen to you! Nowadays, there are so many phone types and styles. Depending on where you are in the world, you may have a difficult time finding one to fit your phone.
So to eliminate this problem, remember to pack your cell phone charger before you set out on your trip. Another great option is to buy the newer wireless charging device that is compatible with multiple phone types. Amazon has some great deals on these phone chargers. Have a look here to find the best deals.
Sunglasses
One of the most important travel items you should pack regardless of your destination is a good pair of sunglasses. Sunglasses aren’t only important to pack for hot and sunny destinations, they’re also vital when you’re going to a ski resort planning to spend time on the slopes.
Wearing a good pair of sunglasses is very important, don’t leave home without them! Here are some great ideas for sunglasses on Amazon: Sunglasses
Medications
Travelers should always pack medications when going away, but some popular prescription and over-the-counter medications like pain relief, better sleep, allergies, and even the common cold are illegal in some countries. It is important to check with all your travel destinations to make sure both your prescription medications and over-the-counter medications will be allowed.
A lot of travelers have problems dealing with jet lag. I know I certainly have. It can be very troublesome for some people. Something I have found to work great and recommend is a product called Jet Lag Rapid Reset. This product is very helpful and inexpensive. It’s something you should have in your travel bag! 
Portable Travel Safe
Where do I put my valuables when going for a swim? This is something that not many people have thought of. Having a portable travel safe will allow you to put your valuables inside and attach it to almost anything. You can then relax without worrying that people are snooping around possibly stealing your personal belongings.
Protect your valuables. If you don’t have one of these, you should consider getting one before your trip and bring it along with you. They are becoming very popular, and people love having that piece of mind. They are very affordable, and I highly recommend you give them a try! They are a big seller on Amazon; you can check them out here.
Expert Tip
Have you ever wanted to be an expert in planning that perfect memorable trip? I was always someone who had to plan everything perfectly before setting out on a vacation or getaway. I needed to be organized and know exactly what I was doing throughout each day of my trip. Planning a trip beforehand is essential if you want to have an enjoyable vacation. Having a memorable trip can include things that are scary, funny or fascinating. Try the tip below.
Plan Ahead To Do Something Intimidating Or Scary
If you really want to have a memorable trip, find something that is really intimidating and something you always wanted to do but never had the chance. Maybe even take some risks, do something that might be out of the ordinary for you to do. Now I’m not saying to do something that puts you in danger or harm, but maybe try things like going into a crowded place like a local pub. Go to a pub where you don’t know anyone, or speak the same language.
Maybe it’s a loud fast paced environment or it could be really quiet. Either one can make for an interesting time. Yes, this can be nerve-racking, and make you a bit uncomfortable but you may be surprised what a good time you will have! Some of my most memorable moments have been doing this exact thing. Thanks for reading!
