We all know the basic items we need to pack before a trip—passport, wallet, underwear, and toiletries. But there are a few must-have travel essentials that often get left behind, which can make your trip less enjoyable or more stressful than necessary. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s the little things that make all the difference when traveling. Whether you’re jet-setting for a weekend getaway, heading out on a business trip, or embarking on a cross-country adventure for pleasure, these are the must-pack items that’ll keep you prepared, organized, and relaxed.

1. Universal Travel Adapter

Recommended brand: Ceptics

When you’re traveling internationally, having a universal travel adapter can be a game changer. Different countries use different plug types, and not being able to charge your phone, laptop, or camera could easily become a travel nightmare. The Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter is highly recommended for its versatility. It’s compact, lightweight, and works in over 150 countries. The adapter comes with multiple USB ports, so you can charge several devices at once. It’s one of those must-have travel essentials you don’t realize you need until you’ve already arrived at your destination, and it’s too late.

2. Waterproof Electronics Organizer Travel Case

Recommended brands: Inateck and ProCase

Let’s face it—traveling with electronics can be tricky. Between your phone, headphones, chargers, and power banks, it’s easy for cables to get tangled and devices to get damaged. That’s where a waterproof electronics organizer travel casecomes in handy. Brands like Inateck and ProCase offer durable, waterproof options that help you keep all your gadgets and cords neatly organized in one place. This is one of those must-have travel essentials that you may not realize the importance of until you spill a bottle of water in your bag and panic about your electronics getting soaked.

3. Packing Cubes

Recommended brands: Veken Packing Cubes and Bagail Compression Packing Cubes

If you haven’t started using packing cubes yet, you’re seriously missing out. These simple organizers help separate your clothes, make more room in your suitcase, and keep everything in place. Veken Packing Cubes and Bagail Compression Packing Cubes are great for maximizing space, especially when packing bulky items like sweaters and jackets. With these, you’ll never have to rummage through a messy suitcase again. They also make unpacking at your destination a breeze. Trust me, packing cubes are truly one of the must-have travel essentials that will change the way you pack forever.

4. Travel Laundry Detergent

Recommended brands: Tide and Sink Suds

Many people overlook the need to wash clothes while traveling, especially on longer trips. Instead of overpacking, bring some travel laundry detergent to easily wash clothes in your hotel sink. Brands like Tide and Sink Suds offer portable packets of detergent that are perfect for on-the-go laundry. Not only will this save space in your luggage, but it also helps you avoid the hassle (and cost) of finding a laundromat. This is one of those must-have travel essentials that can help you pack lighter and travel smarter.

5. Sunglass Travel Organizer

Recommended brands: Muf Sunglass Organizer and Meigan Glass Case

If you’re like me and tend to bring multiple pairs of sunglasses on a trip, you’ll know how tricky it can be to keep them safe. A sunglass travel organizer is a fantastic way to protect your shades from scratches and damage. Muf makes an organizer that holds up to four pairs of sunglasses, while Meigan offers a double case for those who only need to bring two. These organizers keep your sunglasses neatly stored, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking in your bag. Sunglasses are easy to forget, but a sunglass travel organizer is one of those must-have travel essentials that’ll make your trip smoother.

6. Mini First Aid Kit

Recommended brand: Atickyaid

Accidents happen when you least expect them. That’s why packing a mini first aid kit is essential. Atickyaid makes a classic red first aid kit with a white cross, making it easy to spot in your luggage. Whether it’s a small cut or a blister from walking all day, having a mini first aid kit on hand can save you from a lot of discomfort. This is definitely one of those must-have travel essentials you hope you won’t need but will be thankful for if something happens.

7. Travel Size Pain/Allergy Medicine

Recommended brands: Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets and Zyrtec Go Packs

You never know when a headache, sore muscles, or allergies might hit during your travels. Having travel-size pain and allergy medicine can save you from unnecessary suffering while on the go. Brands like Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets and Zyrtec Go Packs offer compact options that fit easily in your bag. You’ll be glad to have these with you when unexpected pain or allergies strike. Again, this is one of those must-have travel essentials that can make or break your trip if you forget it.

8. Portable Charger Power Bank

Recommended brand: Anker

In today’s digital age, keeping your devices charged while traveling is crucial. A portable charger power bank is one of the most important items to have in your carry-on. Anker makes some of the best power banks on the market, offering fast charging and long-lasting power. Whether you’re stuck in an airport with no available outlets or exploring a city all day without access to a charger, having a portable power bank ensures that your phone (or other devices) stay charged. Don’t underestimate the convenience of this must-have travel essential.

9. Travel Jewelry Organizer

Recommended brand: ProCase

If you like to bring jewelry on your trips, a travel jewelry organizer is a must. ProCase offers an organizer with multiple compartments to keep your earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets from tangling or getting lost. Not only does it keep everything organized, but it also prevents damage to your favorite pieces. A jewelry organizer may not be at the top of your packing list, but it’s definitely an underrated travel essential if you want to keep your accessories in perfect condition.

10. Single-Use Eye Drops

Recommended brand: Refresh

Traveling, especially on planes, can make your eyes feel dry and irritated. That’s why having single-use eye drops is such a lifesaver. Refresh offers portable vials of eye drops that you can easily tuck into your purse or carry-on. These are perfect for giving your eyes a quick refresh during a long flight or after a day of sightseeing. Again, this is one of those must-have travel essentials that you don’t think about until you really need it.

11. Foldable Bags

Recommended brands: The Foldie and G4Free

Foldable bags are a lifesaver when you unexpectedly need extra space for new purchases, groceries, or even a day hike. I can’t count how many times I’ve needed an extra bag on a trip, whether for souvenirs (especially during a BOGO sale!) or when I decided to go on a spontaneous hike. The Foldie and G4Free make lightweight, durable bags that fold up neatly into compact pouches, taking up almost no room in your luggage. Having a foldable bag on hand gives you extra flexibility for whatever surprises your trip may throw at you, making it one of those underrated travel essentials you’ll be glad you packed!

These underrated travel essentials are tried-and-true items that I never leave home without anymore. Packing smart can save you from headaches and hassles during your trip, making your experience much more enjoyable.

Do you have any other travel essentials that you swear by? Share your recommendations in the comments below so we can all help each other have better, stress-free trips in the future!