10 Things People Typically Tend to Forget When They’re Returning From Vacation

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Aight, check this out. When it’s time to leave your vacation spot and head home, it’s easy to overlook a few essentials in the rush to pack up. But forgetting the wrong thing can turn your relaxing trip into a headache real quick.

Here’s a list of 10 things people tend to forget when they’re returning from vacation—and how you can make sure you don’t leave them behind.

1. Phone Charger or Travel Charger

Your phone charger is one of the most commonly forgotten items. Whether it’s plugged into the hotel wall or your rental car’s USB port, it’s easy to overlook.

Pro Tip:

Keep a dedicated multi charger cord/cable (lightning port/usb-c) in your suitcase  so you never have to unpack your main one.

2. Slippers

Slippers are often tucked under the bed or left in a corner. They might not seem like a big deal until you’re home and missing that extra comfort.

3. Toiletries

Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and travel-sized products often get left behind in hotel bathrooms. Double-check drawers, counters, and shower shelves before heading out.

Pro Tip:

A hanging toiletry bag makes it easier to keep everything in one spot and grab it all at once.

4. Clothes in the Closet or Drawer

That jacket you hung up or the jeans you tucked away in a drawer? They’re probably still there. Do a final sweep of all closets, drawers, and shelves before you leave.

5. Souvenirs or Gifts

You spent time picking out souvenirs or gifts for family and friends, only to leave them behind. Keep them in your carry-on or somewhere visible in your luggage to avoid this mistake.

6. Reusable Water Bottles or Travel Mugs

If you travel with a reusable water bottle or mug, make sure it’s not still sitting on a countertop or in your car’s cup holder.

7. Small Electronics or Cables

Headphones, power banks, camera batteries—these tiny essentials are easy to misplace or leave behind.

8. Laundry Bags or Dirty Clothes

If you used a laundry bag or kept dirty clothes in a separate pile, make sure they make it back into your suitcase. Forgetting them can lead to unnecessary laundry headaches later.

9. Travel Documents

Passports, IDs, and boarding passes are critical but surprisingly easy to leave behind. Use a travel document organizer to keep everything in one place and within reach.

10. Personal Comfort Items

Blankets, pillows, eye masks—if you brought personal comfort items, double-check that they’re not still on the plane, in the rental car, or stuffed in a hotel corner.

How to Avoid Forgetting Things

Set an Alarm or Calendar Reminder

Before your trip, create a checklist of everything you packed. Then, set an alarm or calendar action for your check-out time to remind you to go through your list before you leave. That little notification could save you a lot of frustration later.

Pack as You Go

Instead of waiting until the last minute, pack things as you’re done using them.

Do a Final Sweep

Before you leave, go through every drawer, closet, and surface one last time to catch anything you might have missed.

Official Disclosure

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some of the links in this blog may lead to tools and products I recommend for better travel organization. These are based on personal experience and designed to help make your travels stress-free.