10 Spring Break Items I Always Forget to Pack (but You Shouldn’t!)
Spring break is just around the corner — and if you’re anything like me, you’re already mentally planning vacation outfits and thinking about what you need to toss in your suitcase. But also, if you’re anything like me, you still always seem to forget crucial or useful items — even when you make a spring break packing list.
In my case, I end up either wishing I had that item (like a deck of cards) and kind of just dealing without it, or I have to go out and buy it even though I have a perfectly good one at home (like sunscreen or a hat). So take it from me, someone who seems to always forget that one thing, and skip the regret by packing these spring break essentials.
1. Sunscreen
Whether you’re vacationing someplace warm or going on a ski trip getaway, sunscreen is a must. Bringing it to a beach destination is a no-brainer, but even on the slopes, the UV rays can be brutal because of the thinner atmosphere. Even though you’ll likely be wearing snow gear, parts of your face will be exposed — I know I always want sunscreen for my nose and cheeks.
2. Cash
I always tell myself that I won’t need cash, but then I end up at a food truck or artist market and have to run to the closest ATM and pay ridiculous fees. So avoid that annoyance, and put a few bills in your wallet for those and other just-in-case situations.
3. Bluetooth Speaker
I never think to pack this because I assume one of my friends will, but then we all do that and end up not having a speaker on vacation. It’s not a deal breaker — you can obviously play music from a phone — but it’s definitely one of those things that I regret forgetting when we’re hanging out and want some music in the background. My favorite portable speaker is the JBL Go 3 because even though it’s small it has a ton of range, plus it comes in a ton of cute colors.
JBL Go 3 Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker
Amazon
$39.95 (was $49.95)
4. Hand Sanitizer
You can easily buy this in the airport or a gas station, but I find that I don’t realize I need it until after I’ve boarded the plane and have touched something gross or I’m on the highway on-ramp. Plus, if you remember to pack hand sanitizer, you can take one that actually smells good and clips to your bag for easy access.
5. Eyeglass Cleaning Cloth
Even though I wear glasses all day, every day, I always seem to forget a cleaning cloth when I go on a trip. Sunglasses can get super dirty, too. Packing an eyeglass cloth can save a lot of spotty lenses and even help out a fellow bespectacled friend.
6. Gum
Again, this is something you can easily purchase at a gas station or airport (for a higher price!), but I never realize I want or need gum until it’s too late. Especially on group spring break trips, gum is essential when traveling for hours on end together.
7. Deck of Cards
It’s fun to have a deck on hand for any late-night hangouts. And if/when your flight inevitably gets delayed or you accidentally book an Airbnb that doesn’t have a TV or games, a deck of cards can fill any moment of boredom.
Game On! Waterproof Playing Cards
Ban.do
$14.95
Buy Now
8. Hat
I have a ton of hats — probably too many, if I’m being honest — and I bought most of them on vacations after realizing I didn’t have one in my suitcase. Usually, I end up grabbing one from the closest Target or “tourist trap” because I need it for warmth or protection from the sun, and then my home collection grows and grows unnecessarily. So don’t be like me, and remember your favorite baseball cap or basic beanie.
9. Band-Aids
Trust me — this one is important. If you’re going out with friends and decide to wear heels, you’re probably going to need one or two Band-Aids by the end of the night. If you packed your cute, new sandals and didn’t have a chance to break them in and then wear them all day, you’ll likely need them then too. Pack a handful for you or your friends, and you’ll be the hero of the trip.
10. Reusable Tote Bag
I always have instant regret when I forget my trusty reusable bag because it’s so convenient for so many things on vacation. It’s perfect as an easy beach tote, a grocery bag for quick snack trips, and a catchall for a day’s worth of activities and shopping. And most reusable bags can easily fold into a pocket-sized square.
Of course, we’re all still bound to forget to pack something essential from time to time, but this list is meant to ease some stress in time for your spring break!
This post originally appeared on Dorm Therapy. See it there: 10 Spring Break Items I Always Forget to Pack (but You Shouldn’t!)
Further Reading
We Tested (and Rated!) All the Sofas at Ashley — Here Are the Best to Suit Your Style and Space
We Tested (and Rated!) Every Sofa at West Elm — Here Are the Best for Every Type of Need
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Article’s DTC Furniture
