Table of Contents
Few things are as exciting as leaving home to embark on a new journey. However, leaving something important at home can be enough to ruin a dream trip. Here you can read a list of things that you should not leave at home if you go on a trip. Some points may seem obvious, but you would be surprised by how many people have gone to the airport and left their passports at home. Keep this list handy for your next trip, and be sure to take all the essentials with you.
Documents
Let’s start with the most basic and essential. Documents. Whether you travel by land or plane, if you are going to travel outside your country, you must bring a passport. If you travel by any type of transport, such as a plane, train, or bus, you will need the tickets (although, in many cases, they only ask to show the QR code from the purchase). It depends on your destination, but you may also need other documentation since some countries require visas, permits, or proof of vaccination.
Buy a small bag you can carry with you at all times and use it exclusively for taking your documents. This way, you will always keep your IDs and tickets with you so you do not lose them.
Surely you have heard terrible stories of people who lose their papers and must move heaven and earth to return to their countries of origin. For that reason, something you should take on a trip is a copy, physical or electronic, of your passport. You could also backup your documents in your phone’s memory or in a cloud. Also, make copies of the plane tickets and the hotel reservation to avoid problems. You may need it in case you lose one.
Cash and Cards
Something you should take on a trip is cash. Many travelers think traveling with debit or credit cards is enough, but having money in your pocket is essential. Sometimes there are no ATMs, and it is necessary to cover an unexpected expense or deal with an emergency.
Of course, taking your debit card and, especially, your credit card with you on a trip is also essential. However, do not carry any credit card with you, and pick those that grant you benefits.
For example, there are credit cards with which you can accumulate points. Some banks allow you to exchange these points for plane tickets, hotel discounts, products, etc. Therefore, before traveling, go to your bank and ask them about the credit card promotions for travelers that they have to offer.
Plug Adapter
A common mistake that travelers make, which has probably already happened to you, is thinking that the electrical current is the same in all countries. For example, the voltage is different in Australia, so it is advisable to bring an adapter.
You may think this is unnecessary, but many people have lost their electronic equipment because they did not carry one. The voltage is very high, and when connected, the equipment burns. If you don’t want this to happen to you, take an adapter!
Hygiene Products
Something that you should take on a trip and that is essential is personal hygiene products. Take body soap, deodorant, moisturizer, and sunscreen in your suitcase to avoid spending money on buying new products. Remember that when traveling to another country, you may not get the products you are used to, so it is better to pack them in your suitcase from the start.
Sun Protection
It does not matter if you are going to a cold destination or one full of sun. Protection against UV rays is always necessary. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to keep your skin and eyes safe. If you do not already have a pair of glasses to take on your trip, you can order them at goodr.com.
In the web browser, you can also learn about the day’s weather and how much sun there will be to know what type of protection to wear. But in general, sunglasses and sunscreen should be enough to care for your well-being.
Chargers for Electronic Devices
Remember to take your chargers on a trip if you are packing your suitcase. Mobile and camera chargers are essential, but if you bring your laptop, remember to pack your charger. Oh, also, you must carry a power bank with you. It would be a shame if you were taking photos with your mobile and ran out of battery during the excursion.
Medicines
In some countries, medicines are somewhat expensive. For this reason, basic treatments are recommended items to take on a trip: pain relievers, flu medications, allergy medications, etc. Of course, do your research first and find out if you can take these medicines without breaking the law of the country you will visit.
If you are under medical treatment, also make sure that the medications you use are legal in the country you are going to. Otherwise, you can ask your doctor for a medical report or prescription that justifies the use of these medicines. This way, the authorities will let you enter with them without any problem.
Conclusion
Packing the necessary things in your suitcase will ensure that you have a safe and trouble-free trip. Make sure you bring all the required documents with you and bring a few copies just in case. Pack the chargers for your electronic equipment and plug adapters if necessary. Include your medicines, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect your skin from UV rays.
You can also create your personalized list since you, more than anyone, know what essential things you always need to take with you. Save this list on your notes or your computer and use it every time you pack for a trip, or you could also share it with your friends so they do not miss anything either. Pack your suitcase using this guide checklist, and you will see how your trip will go perfectly.
Image Credit: Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash