10 Unexpected Essentials I Always Pack (and You Should Too)

Because no one wants to buy scratchy tissues at a British chemist at midnight

You already know to pack your passport and your charger. But after years of travel, I have developed a list of items I never leave behind. These little lifesavers make each trip smoother, more comfortable, and way less stressful. Some might surprise you, but once you bring them, you will never travel without them again.

Black Electrical Tape

There is nothing worse than settling in after a long travel day and being blinked at by the glowing green eye of a carbon monoxide detector or A/C. In my 'dopp kit' I keep a roll of black electrical tape and temporarily cover any light that dares to interrupt my sleep. Small fix, big payoff! Just don't forget to take it off.

Refillable Water Bottle

Hydration is everything. I fill mine at the airport or breakfast buffet, and in places like Switzerland and Italy, you will find safe, free public fountains all over. It is better for your body, better for the planet, and it saves a few Euros too.

Lightweight Tote Bag

Whether you are headed to the beach or hopping on a group tour, a little canvas tote is a game changer. It holds sunscreen, my water bottle, a scarf, and anything I pick up along the way. It also comes in handy for market browsing and day trips.

Binder Clips

They might seem like humble little office supplies, but binder clips are one of my favorite unsung travel heroes. I never leave home without a few tossed in a side pocket of my suitcase. Here’s why:

• Hotel curtains that almost close? Snap a binder clip on them and enjoy blackout sleep perfection.

• Charging cords trailing off the nightstand? Clip one to the edge and run your cord through the arms. Voila, organized and easy to grab.

• That bag of trail mix you didn’t finish? Binder clip. Sealed and safe from spills.

Apple AirTag

This tiny gadget has saved my sanity more than once. I toss one in my checked luggage, one in my purse and another in my day bag. If something disappears, I can see exactly where it is. Peace of mind in your pocket.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are my not-so-secret weapon. They keep clothes tidy, compress bulky items, and make unpacking a breeze. Plus, when is the last time anyone ever cleaned the inside of a dresser drawer? Ew. I also pack a separate cube for laundry so it stays out of the way and out of sight.

Mini Medicine Kit

On my honeymoon 30 (!?!) ago, I got sick in London. What I remember most was not the sore throat, but the OUCHY tissues. British Kleenex at the time? Not soft. My husband had to track down cold medicine at night, and the whole thing was a bit of a saga. Ever since then, I bring my own stash. Here is what I pack:

• Pain or fever medication like acetaminophen and ibuprofen

• Day and night cold medicine in blister packs

• Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, antacids, and gas relief tablets

• Benadryl, Claritin, or Sudafed

• Motion sickness tablets

• Sunscreen

• Travel-size tissues

• Hand sanitizer

It is much easier to have these things ready than to search for them in a new country.

Tweezers

Splinters, peeling luggage tags, stray hairs, loose threads, sticker residue. Tweezers are a true MVP. I always keep a pair in my makeup bag.

Blister Bandages and Moleskin

You might walk five to ten miles a day when exploring a new place. Even shoes that felt great at home can rub the wrong way in a new climate or terrain. Protect your feet. You will thank me later.

Collapsible Duffel Bag

This one is for my fellow shoppers. I fold a duffel flat in my suitcase, then pop it open when I pick up wine, gifts, or that scarf I swore I would not buy. This keeps my suitcase light and organized on the way there and prevents overweight baggage fees on the way home. Total win.

What About You?

I would love to know your own unexpected must-haves. Reply to this post or drop a comment and share. You might just inspire my next tip.

And if you are dreaming of a vacation that is smooth, luxurious, and stress-free from the moment you pack to the moment you land back home, you know who to call.

Let’s plan something unforgettable together!

Your World Awaits.

xo

Shauna