Never leave home without these ten things, or at least I never leave for a trip without them.
(These are not listed in any certain order.)
1. Plenty of Money or Credit Cards - It is recommended that you do not bring cash on a trip, however, I opted a few years ago to pay off my cards and cancel them, so I usually carry some cash(but not to much) and a ATM card.(Which works like cash, but is easier to recover if stolen or loss.)
2. All prescription and none prescription medications in including eye wear. This means pack those glasses even if you never wear them and pack an extra set of contact lenses, case, cleaning formulas and eye drops. Eyes can really take a beating on trips.
3. A well packed suite case. This means make a list of items you will need to wear. Such as formal wear, casual wear, sleep wear, and especially(yep I am a mom), underwear.
4. Soaps, Shampoos and conditioners that suit your needs. While hotels offer these in small quantities, seldom is there enough to fully clean my hair. So I prefer to bring my own bath products.
5. Cell phone, important numbers and charger base for phone. I seldom leave home without my cell phone and because the lighter in my car does not work, I have to charge it when I get to my destination. If you have a cigarette lighter that works and are traveling by car, then you have the option of getting the adapter that plugs into your lighter in order to keep your phone charged up.
Pass port if traveling where you will be required to present one. And any other information required for international travel.
Comfortable shoes. A plus for any travel, is comfort. Walking on sore feet only leave the memories of sore feet, so make sure your shoes are comfortable.
8. Any itineraries that may have been preset for your trip such as check in times at the hotel, car rental times, appointment times and places. Remember, you can not just run back home and gather these items if you miss a meeting or are in fear of missing one.
9. I bring maps and two different types of Atlas with me when traveling by car. Sometimes roads are closed, or you miss a turn, this prevents you from missing your deadline on arriving some place. Plus, it helps sooth your nerves if traveling to a strange area. I do most of my traveling alone, and always feel reassured that I can safely find my way as long as I have these items with me.
10. If traveling by car, bring that all important second set of keys and put them in your pants pocket or the pocket of your jacket if you do not have pockets on your pants. This way if you should get out of your car and lock it by mistake, then you will have that extra set to get back into the car with.
In Closing
While traveling, the most important thing you can bring your brain. Keep an open eye to possible dangers, as well as pleasures.