Your next big vacation is on the horizon and you’re just about done packing. Swimsuit? Check. Toothbrush? Check. Tennis shoes? Check. You’re all set, right?

Not so fast. While you might have the essentials for your trip, there’s a good chance you’re missing some key elements that could make for much smoother travels. The following items won’t take up much space in your luggage, but you’ll be surprised at how much they come in handy!

Copy of important documents

What’s number one on our essential packing list? Paper and electronic copies of your license, insurance card, passport, and any other important information, like medical needs. Misplacing hardcopies of these documents could put a real wrench in your travels, whether you’re at the airport or the hospital.

Reusable water bottle

Remember, you can’t pass through security with a full water bottle. However, you can fill it up at a water fountain on the other side of the gates and avoid costly airport prices. Traveling, especially flying, can make you thirsty, so having your own water bottle at all times will keep you hydrated and happy.

Ear plugs and eye mask

Ear plugs and an eye mask are essential things to pack for traveling, too. You may not use them when you sleep at home, but they work wonders when you’re trying to snooze on a noisy flight or resting in a hotel with thin walls. They cancel out noise and light and can even help you fight jet lag.

Charger and converters

You’ve probably already packed your phone, but what about your charging cord? If you’re traveling somewhere remote or in a foreign country, a portable battery charger will keep your phone full of power. Another option is to purchase a universal travel adapter that lets you use an American plug in any European, U.K., and Australian/New Zealand outlet.

Reusable bag

What’s one of the best tips for packing light? Rolling up a few reusable bags into your suitcase. Instead of packing an over-sized suitcase, you’ll have an extra bag or two for loading up on souvenirs at the end of your trip. These bags are also a great option for storing dirty laundry, protecting fragile items, and even wrapping up your shoes.

Plastic poncho

No matter how closely you follow the forecast, a surprise downpour can occur at any time. Pack a poncho and cover your suitcase to protect it from the elements or keep dry as you’re touring the attractions. It may not be the most stylish, but it sure beats wet clothes!

First-aid essentials

No, you don’t need to pack a suitcase full of meds, bandages, and gauze, but there are a few things that you’ll appreciate having on hand. Band-Aids are worth their weight in gold when your shoes start to rub, and an over-the-counter pain reliever does the trick when you can’t shake that lingering headache. And if you tend to get woozy on long car rides, flights, or ferries, don’t forget to bring some anti-nausea medication!

Pen and paper

Need to jot down directions or the name of that restaurant recommendation? Or what about the email addresses of the friends you just made? Pack a pen and paper and you’ll be set to record information on the fly.

Use Your New Packing Tips in These Popular Vacation Destinations:
1. Walt Disney World
2. Yellowstone National Park
3. The Grand Canyon
4. Hawaiin Islands
5. London
6. Las Vegas