Packing for a trip or a move can be stressful—even when you think you’ve planned for everything. Between organizing your essentials and boxing up your life, it’s easy to forget small but important items. The result? Frustration, wasted time, and extra expenses once you realize what’s missing.
To save you from that hassle, here’s a list of the most commonly forgotten items—and how to make sure they stay on your radar. Whether you’re heading on vacation or relocating, this list will help you stay one step ahead.
1. Chargers and Cables
It’s almost a cliché at this point, but it still happens: you pack your phone, tablet, or laptop—then leave the charger plugged into the wall. Chargers are small, easy to overlook, and a pain to replace in a hurry. Make a checklist of all the devices you’re taking and gather their charging cables in one spot the night before your move or trip. A small pouch labeled “electronics” can save the day.
2. Important Documents
Passports, IDs, travel insurance, health records, and even car registration documents are often forgotten—especially when they’re stored in a drawer or filing cabinet away from your regular routine. Create a “documents” folder and keep it with you at all times during a move or trip. If you’re relocating, keeping copies of your lease, utility setup info, or employment paperwork is critical.
3. Medications and Prescriptions
Daily meds are easy to forget because they’re typically packed last—or assumed to be “obvious.” But even missing a day or two of critical medication can have serious consequences. Make a note to pack these in your personal bag, not a box or suitcase that might get delayed or lost. If you’re traveling, include a copy of your prescriptions in case you need to get them refilled on the go.
4. Toiletries You Actually Use
Many people pack the basics—like toothpaste and shampoo—but forget the things they use every single day: razors, hairbrushes, deodorant, or even contact lens solution. Think about your daily routine, and walk yourself through it mentally while making your packing list. This helps you identify items that might not make the standard checklist but are essential to your comfort.
5. Keys
Yes, keys. It sounds obvious, but in the chaos of a move, people often leave behind spare keys, mailbox keys, or garage openers. These little things can lead to major headaches later. Designate one place for all your keys and double-check that you have them before leaving your old place. If you’re traveling, don’t forget car keys, luggage locks, or hotel safe keys.
6. Everyday Kitchen Items
While major appliances and cookware usually make it into the moving truck, the everyday stuff—like can openers, measuring cups, or that one knife you use for everything—often gets left behind. If you’re moving, pack a “first kitchen” box with the essentials you’ll want in your first few days at your new place. This should include a few utensils, plates, and maybe even your go-to coffee maker.
7. Trash Bags, Cleaning Supplies, and Paper Towels
Especially during a move, cleaning supplies are easy to overlook. But you’ll need them: to clean your old place before you leave, to handle spills on moving day, and to clean your new space before settling in. Don’t forget paper towels, all-purpose cleaner, sponges, and at least one roll of toilet paper. Keep these in a separate box labeled “Open First.”
8. Comfort Items
It’s not all about essentials. When everything is unfamiliar, small comforts go a long way. A favorite pillow, a child’s stuffed animal, your go-to hoodie—these are things that don’t seem “essential” when you’re packing, but they’re often the most missed. Set aside a bag with these personal items to help ease the transition.
9. Tools and Hardware
If you’ve taken down furniture or wall art, you’ll need tools to put everything back together again. People often forget screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, nails, and the tiny hardware pieces that make furniture functional. Pack these in a labeled zip-top bag and tape it to the item it belongs with—or put all tools in a single box for easy access.
The Best Way to Stay Prepared
So, what’s the best way to simplify your move or pack smart for travel? Make personalized checklists early. Go room by room or category by category, and add items you use daily that might not appear on generic lists. Start packing non-essentials a week ahead, and leave a final checklist for those last-minute items.
Final Thought
Packing is never perfect, but being intentional can help you avoid the most common mistakes. Keep your checklist visible, double-check the little things, and take your time with the final walkthrough. Whether you’re relocating across the country or heading out for a weekend trip, remembering these often-overlooked items can make a big difference in your peace of mind.
