When I am getting ready to travel, I am usually good about remembering to pack or do most things. But there are certain ones that don’t really fit into any easy category (such as pieces that make an outfit, items for entertainment, tasks to help with planning, etc.), and I often forget them. Even on my tenth trip! 

So I am writing these down today for myself as much as for you, so I can look back at this list and make sure I haven’t missed anything vital as I am getting ready to go on another adventure. 

Don’t Forget to Pack:

Power adapers and converters

Adapters and converters are not the same thing, and you might need just one or both. I am not qualified to be dishing out electrician advice, so just make sure you look this up before you go and have the right pieces with you, depending on your destination.

Shower shoes

I am a germaphope, and I do not like my bare feet touching questionably-clean surfaces. 

Dirty laundry bag

Self-explanatory; it’s just really easy to forget this.

Hat

For some reason I always forget this and end up buying one wherever I am to keep that pesky sun out of my eyes. Make sure your hat fits well, or it’ll be blowing away or flopping in your face. 

Prescription Medications

Obvious, and not quite as easy to forget, but can ruin your trip if you do.

Don’t Forget to Do:

Learn a few travel phrases

You might be bringing a pocket language book or cheat sheet with you, but it’s also a good idea to memorize a few key phrases. I like to learn “I am a vegetarian” and “Where is the restroom?” among others.

Directions from the airport (if not taking a taxi)

The last thing you want to do when you are jet-lagged and bogged down with bags is try to figure out how to get to your next spot. Knowing what you’re looking for (specific train platforms, ticket kiosks, etc.) is essential to avoid post-flight crankiness.

Medical insurance

Check awhile before you leave if your current insurance will cover you or if you need to purchase anything additional.

International driver’s license

Will you be renting a car? Different countries have different rules about driving. Figure it out before you go.

Hold mail

Another simple one, but so easy to miss. You don’t want to come home to overflowing mail, or worse – a home that’s been broken into because the burglars knew you were gone for a while.

Notify the bank

Let your financial institutions know you’ll be using your cards abroad, or you might find them canceled when you need them the most.

Look into Visas

Every country combination (where you’re from and where you’re going) is different. Make sure you have the legalities in place, or else your trip will be 2 back-to-back flights without any great experiences in between. You cannot talk your way out of this mistake, so don’t let it happen!

Obviously this is not an all-encompassing list. But they are the random, category-less things I have forgotten or nearly forgotten in the past. And If I’ve forgotten them, I’m sure I’m not the only one! Have you ever forgotten anything major that was hard to replace on the go? Let me know in the comments. Happy travels!