Life Travel Travel Planning Basic Vacation Essentials Packing Checklist Even the best-laid vacation plans can be easily dashed by something as simple as forgetting to pack the creature comforts and small necessities that you, well, need. Frustratingly, it always seems to be the obvious, everyday things that you use all the time (your glasses, for example, or your toothbrush—doh!) that get left out of the suitcase, and consequently left behind. But fear not—we’ve come up with this handy list to ensure that exact scenario never happens again, and that you can confidently head off on your next trip sans that nagging “I think I’m forgetting something” feeling. Conveniently broken down into categories that include everything from health and beauty items to “equipment” like batteries and phone chargers, and structured in interactive, checklist form, tick each box as you pack each essential away, and you’ll be prepared for stress-free fun, wherever you’re headed. (We intentionally left out clothing since that varies so widely, but try our Beach Vacation Packing List for a comprehensive review of what you’ll need if you’re heading somewhere warm, or our Ski Trip Packing Checklist if you’re bound for colder climes). Bon voyage! By Real Simple Editors Real Simple Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter An article attributed to "Real Simple Editors" indicates a collaborative effort from our in-house team. Sometimes, several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The REAL SIMPLE team strives to make life easier for you. They are experts in their fields who research, test and clearly explain the best recipes, strategies, trends and products. They have worked for some of the most prestigious brands in lifestyle journalism, including Apartment Therapy, Better Homes & Gardens, Food & Wine, the Food Network, Good Housekeeping, InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, O: The Oprah Magazine, Parents, POPSUGAR, Rachel Ray Every Day, and Vogue. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Published on July 21, 2008 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: PAUL SIRISALEE Accessories Contact lenses and/or glasses, if necessary (consider packing extra pairs, too) SlippersSunglasses Equipment Alarm clockBatteries for small electronics and camerasCamera (and film, if needed)Chargers for your cell phone, camera, video camera, and laptopHair dryer (if your hotel doesn't supply one)Headphones for watching in-flight moviesiPod and iPod dockTripodVideo camera Health and Beauty Items Antibacterial wipesBody lotionComb and brushContact lens solution (if needed)DeodorantFace cleanserFirst aid kit, including gas-relief tablets, antacid, antidiarrheal medicine, antihistamine for allergies, bandages, candied ginger for motion sickness, mild laxative, non-aspirin pain reliever, and a thermometer in a hard caseFlossInsect repellentLip balm (choose one with SPF 15)MakeupPersonal-hygiene itemsPrescriptionsRazorsShampoo and conditionerShaving gelSunscreen (pack at least one all-purpose sunscreen with SPF 15)ToothbrushToothpasteTravel-sized detergent Miscellaneous Addresses of friends and family for postcardsHealthy snacks, such as chewy granola bars, dried fruit, mini bagels, nuts, and pretzelsCash, ATM cards, and traveler's checksMaps and directions, if driving (try randmcnally.com for maps, directions, and traffic information)Photograph of luggage contents in case of lossPrintouts of reservationsSealable plastic bags for stowing small liquid containersTravel journalTravel pillow and blanket Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit