- Passport (duh!). Also, copy of your passport in case yours gets lost or stolen. Having a copy will make getting a new one much easier, just in case!
- Trail mix(or what every snacks you prefer). If you are traveling with kids or on a budget, having a few snacks on hand will save you money and possibly prevent the melt down of a grumpy child.
- For the winter: Hand warmers. And no, not just gloves! These little packets are usually sold in the camping area of retail stores and warm up when activated. After walking around in freezing temperatures all day, you will appreciate this little comfort.
- Numbers! Phone numbers for emergency contacts, your credit card account numbers and the contact information so you can call and cancel your cards if lost or stolen.
- Hand sanitizer. Even if you are not a germaphobe, you never know when a nasty public restroom will be out of soap. A small bottle will not take up much space.
- A small bag of powdered laundry detergent. Packing light is always a good idea, and being able to wash clothes in the sink of the hotel helps. Or just pre-treating stains instead of letting them sit for a week until you get home.
- Vacuum seal travel bags. Squish all your clothes into a smaller bag. (Note: these are not the ones that require a vacuum to remove the air. You should just be able to roll it and push the air out).
- Comfy and water proof shoes. You probably knew to bring comfy shoes, but make sure they are water proof, too. Rain, sleet and snow stop for no tourist.
- A smart phone loaded with a map of the city. That way you can just look at your phone, not a huge map that tags you as a tourist.
- Empty water bottles. Empty so they will make it through most government security, and will save money on buying drinks.