Do you suffer from packers anxiety? Never really sure if you've packed everything you needed? Worried you might've forgotten something? There's nothing worse than going on vacation and realizing you left something important at home. Like your phone charger or your headphones, it's an absolutely horrible feeling!! But you aren't alone. Lots of people forget the most basic things when traveling, it's really more common than you think. Here's a list of overlooked travel items can help you out more than you think. Check out these 10 MUST HAVE items you'll need when it comes to traveling!
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1 - Dual Identification. Always make sure to carry at least 2 forms of ID with you, especially if you plan to travel internationally. It's always best to have different forms just in case you lose one or if they need a secondary ID for other reasons. Make sure your ID's are up to date and in compliance with your states' codes to prevent
2 - International phone plan. Although this can be added at anytime, trying to do so while on vacation is a hassle and could result in unnecessary expenses. Be sure to have your plan upgraded to include international calling just in case you need to need to call home in the event of an emergency.
3 - Universal Travel Charger. You'll really only need these if you're traveling to countries that have a different voltage system than the U.S. Many of the travel chargers offer several different plug ins so they're great to have anywhere you go.
4 - Cash Money! Regardless of where you travel, cash is always universally accepted whereas some major credit and debit cards may not be. Make sure you know the local currency and how much your dollar exchanges for. Do your math or you're likely to get conned by someone.
5 - Charging blocks. External battery packs are a must have when traveling. They come in handy on those long flights when your outlet is working. Be sure to properly charge them up and they'll restore your battery all day long. These are the real lifesavers!
6 - TSA Precheck or Global Entry. Both are great options to have for travelers. TSA Precheck allows you to "skip the line" at check in. You don't have to remove your shoes, your belt or any of your personal belongings. The lines are typically shorter at most airports and the expedited service will have you on time for your flight. Global Entry is more for international travelers looking for expedited check in while going through customs when re-entering the US. Global Entry also has the same amenities as TSA Precheck so you don't have to worry about long lines at airports either. Global Entry starts at $100, good for 10 years while TSA Precheck starts at $85 and is good for 5 years.
7 - Travel First Aid Kit. Sounds cliche, who actually carries a first aid kit around? But you'd be surprised at what comes in handy when you least expect it. Bandaids, Neosporin and alcohol to kill germs just to name a few. However, more than just carrying a first aid kit around you can use it to safely store prescriptions and allergy lists. Make a list of all the things you're allergic to and leave it in the kit. It can help save your life.
8 - List of emergency contacts. Always create a list of emergency contacts just in case. Keep it in your wallet or in your hotel room. It helps if you lose your phone or if someone needs to contact someone on your behalf. You can never be too safe.
9 - Extra precautionary supplies. For these current times we need all the extra protection we can get. Be sure to carry extra masks, gloves, hand sanitizer (travel size), wipes, etc... Extra masks are always a smart choice especially since they are so easy to forget and lose. Keep some latex gloves in your luggage as well. You never know when you might need them.
10 - A secondary electronic device. An ipad, a tablet, an emergency phone or something that can aid you in making contact with loved ones back home. In the event you lose your phone, you'll always need a way to let your folks know "you're safe and ok." Keeping a back up device helps since anything can happen on vacation. Better safe than sorry.
Do yourself a favor and keep this list handy the next time you plan a vacation. It might not be much to you now, but imagine being somewhere and needing anything mentioned on this list, but not having it. Be smart in protecting yourself for the "just in case" moments.
Never can be too safe, from one traveler to another.
