5 items most travelers forget to pack

While traveling can be fun and exciting, packing can sometimes be a challenge. It's easy to forget the essential items, even when using a packing checklist. So, whether you’re traveling for work or a vacation, we’ve put together a list of the five most common items travelers forget to pack. That way, you can add these to your packing checklist without worrying about leaving anything behind again. 

1. Reusable water bottle

Hydration is very important when traveling, and it’s something you don't want to forget. Pack an empty water bottle in your carry-on and fill it up at a hands-free hydration station after passing through airport security. If you want to keep your drinks cold as you drive or sightsee, load an insulated reusable bottle with ice in your hotel room before leaving. If you’re traveling somewhere chilly, pack an insulated mug and fill it with hot cocoa instead to keep you warm on the go.

2. Emergency snacks

Hunger does not make a good travel partner. Stash granola bars, nuts and other non-perishable snacks in your backpack. That way, if your late night connection is canceled or you arrive too late at the hotel, you’ll have something to keep the hunger at bay. We’d also recommend having a big meal before you start your journey. If you’re driving to your vacation spot, you could always stop off along the way and grab a bite to eat. 

3. Hand sanitizer

In a world filled with coughing and sneezing travelers, staying healthy can sometimes be a challenge. Keep the germs at bay on the go with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Squirt a few drops onto a cloth to sanitize any handles, doors and surfaces. This multifunctional magic gel also cleans cell phone screens and eyeglasses. Remember if you’re flying, you can only carry liquids measuring 3.4oz (100ml) or less in your hand luggage.

4. Device chargers

Despite their importance, cell phone chargers are easy to forget when packing. To avoid this costly disaster, store chargers for smartphones and smart devices, such as iPads, Kindles and other digital devices, in your tote bag, briefcase, glove box or carry-on luggage.

It can also be useful to bring along a portable charger too. Because they’re battery operated, these slim devices can provide power on the go if your device dies while you're out sightseeing or running errands.

5. Travel document copies

The thought of losing your travel documents is alarming, so it’s a wise precaution to prepare for this challenge. Before traveling, print and store copies of passports, reservations and credit cards in your carry-on luggage or handbag.

Mastering packing takes some practice. Be sure to add these often-forgotten items to your packing checklist and take care of as many details as possible in advance to avoid the last-minute scrambling that makes it easy to forget.

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