You’ve been looking forward to your well-earned vacation and it’s time to pack. We probably don’t need to point out the obvious things to pack such as underwear, bathing suits, toothbrush, toiletries, sunglasses, phone chargers, and extra shoes, but we would like to share some things that will make your holiday go smoother, including some that you probably didn’t think of!
1. Outlet Adapter
Sometimes there just aren’t enough outlets to go around. If you need to plug in your phone chargers, hair dryer, curling iron, razor, and coffee maker, you might just need an adapter to expand the number of things that you can plug in.
2. Binoculars
Picture this: You’re sitting on your balcony and spot some birds or boats out on the water. Grab your binoculars and you’ll be able to get a better look. They’re also great for people watching!
3. Corkscrew
If you’re a wine drinker, you might want to enjoy a glass before dinner or after returning to your room in the evening. You don’t need a fancy corkscrew – just one that will get the job done. Just be sure to pack it in your checked luggage because TSA might confiscate it if it’s in your purse or carry-on.
4. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer
Not just for shoes, these organizers are perfect for holding small items like sunscreen, perfume bottles, deodorant, and other toiletries. Just hang it over the bathroom door and you’ll keep the bathroom counter and other table tops in your room free of clutter. Bonus: You’ll be less likely to forget anything when you check out.
5. Netflix
Streaming video on your vacation could be expensive and maybe there won’t be many viewing options on your TV. While most non-English speaking countries do have TV shows in English, you can be sure that they’ll be reruns of shows that you’ve probably already seen. Netflix allows you to download shows to your computer or tablet. Just choose a bunch that you’re interested in seeing and download them before your trip. Bonus: It’s also a great way to keep the kids entertained on rainy days or if they’re bored.
6. Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags in different sizes are perfect for traveling. Place anything that might leak – lotions, toothpaste, etc. – inside a Ziploc bag and you’ll be sure to protect your clothes and other items from nasty accidents. They’re also great for packing wet bathing suits and for keeping important documents like your passport dry.
7. Tealights
You don’t want to be left in the dark if the power goes out. It’s happened to us! Bring some tealights (and a lighter or matches) that you can place around your room. They’re also great for ambiance on your balcony, deck, or while relaxing in your room’s Jacuzzi.
8. Cell Phone Dry Bag/Pouch
The last thing you want is for your cell phone to be damaged by water or dirt. Duk Gear sells 100% waterproof, floating cell phone pouches that even allow you to use your phone while inside the pouch. You can sit by (or in) the pool or on the beach completely worry-free. Bonus: You can also keep cash, credit cards, and your room key card inside the pouch.
9. Insect Repellent
You definitely want to pack this one! With fears of the Zika Virus, West Nile, and other insect-borne diseases, using insect repellent is the best way to keep mosquitoes from biting. Buying insect repellent at your resort or on a cruise ship will cost you much more than buying it at home. Duk Gear sells Cedar Bug Free, an amazing long-lasting 100% natural bug repellent that really works against pesky biting insects.
10. Dramamine
Getting seasick on a ship or motion sickness while flying isn’t fun for anyone. Keep some Dramamine handy for when the need arises. You’re welcome!
11. Towel Clips
Keeping your towel on your lounger on windy days is a struggle! Keep your towel secure and save yourself some stress with some towel clips. You can buy simple plastic clips or more fun clips that come in the shape of birds or other fun objects.
12. Wrinkle-Release Spray
Nobody likes wrinkled clothes – but it’s inevitable when you’re living out of a suitcase, and ironing while on vacation just isn’t fun. Buy some TSA-Compliant wrinkle-release spray and simply spray the wrinkled item, hang it in the closet, and let the spray work its miracles. It’s probably best to pack the spray in your checked luggage.
EXTRA TIP: Color scan each traveler’s passport ID page (that’s the page with your picture, and date of birth, etc.) and email a copy of them to yourself. That way, if your passport is ever lost or stolen, you’ll still have your information, making it considerably easier to prove your identity when you need to apply for a replacement passport.