15 Items You Should Always Pack When Traveling

Being organized for a vacation, whether you’re traveling by yourself, with a friend or with your family, always leads to a better overall experience. Knowing that you have exactly what you need for the type of trip you’re going on will make your time more efficient which leads to spending more time doing what you love on vacation.

Here are some of the items I always bring with me on vacations, whether it’s a quick weekend get-away or an extended vacation.

  1. Portable charger for each type of device. These are especially handy if your flight has been delayed.

  2. Reusable water bottle. Hydration is always important and it helps with jetlag.

  3. Hand sanitizer and towelettes. Now more then ever, cleanliness is so important.

  4. Small collapsible tote. Perfect to use at a farmer’s market or to carry home those extra souvenirs that don’t fit in your luggage.

  5. Plastic bags or packing cubes. Prefect if you have a muddy pair of shoes after a day of hiking or a wet bathing suit from an early morning swim the day you are returning home.

  6. Universal plug adapters. If you’re traveling abroad, these are a must so you can plug in your phone and other devices. Do the research before you go so you know exactly which type to bring.

  7. A packable rain jacket. It be used as an extra layer on a cold day or keep you dry in a downpour and takes the place of a bulky umbrella in your luggage.

  8. Foreign currency. Yes, using credit cards is great but sometimes you need local currency for tips, cab rides or street food.

  9. Non-perishable snacks. Whether for the plane ride or a quick snack on the go, protein bars can really hit the spot in a pinch.

  10. Printed copy of your itinerary. Handy if you’re in an area without Wi-Fi.

  11. Copies of all passports. Either a photo on your phone or a printed copy, this can come in handy when filling out paperwork or (gasp!) you’ve lost your passport.

  12. Travel neck pillow. Great for a long flight to help you sleep or give you extra back support in your airplane seat.

  13. Noise cancelling earbuds. Great for tuning out the airplane noise and handy at certain museums if they have audio guides you can download on your phone.

  14. First aid kit. A must, especially if you’re traveling with children.

  15. Travel games. Nothing beats a deck of cards or computer games to help pass the time if you have unexpected travel delays.

Traveling can be a wonderful experience, whether you’re going with friends or family. Make it extra-special by taking the time to be organized about your trip. Be sure to download the Living. Simplified. Packing Checklist so you don’t forget anything!

For many of us it’s probably been a few years since we’ve traveled regularly. Be safe, be organized and enjoy!

More Organizing Ideas

Need even more ideas on how to organize your home? Living. Simplified. is ready to help. Take a look at these blog posts or send us an email at lauren@livingsimplified.net and we can work together to reach your organizing and decluttering goals:

5 Steps to Organizing Your Family Room

The Ultimate Guide to Organizing Your Master Bedroom Closet

15 Minutes to an Organized Home