How many times have you forgotten to take something on your trip that you wished you had with you? Using my Trip List system, I only “forget” to take the things that are not on the list. And then, once on vacation, using my cell phone’s “note pad,” I can add the names of items I wish I had taken, for the next trip. I count 130 items on my list — arranged in categories such as General, Food Related, Toilet Articles, Clothing, Electronic and Car-Related.
Here are 10 of what I believe to be the most important items on my trip list. I have been using the trip list for about 25 years. Interestingly, the first item on my “favorites” list is one that I recently added to the list.
1. A plug-in nightlight
When the hotel’s drapes are drawn, it is pitch black. Before I added the nightlight, I used my flashlight to get to the hotel bathroom at night. Now the nightlight plugged into the bathroom outlet, with the bathroom door ajar, gives the room just enough light to see where to go — without fumbling for that flashlight.
2. A sharp knife
Yes, I can cut with a plastic knife, but it is so much easier to slice those tomatoes for the tuna sandwiches with a sharp knife.
3. Boxes of quart- and gallon-sized plastic bags
Not only can so many things be stored in plastic bags, but they also fit more neatly into the cooler than solid containers (some of which I also take). I can also zip my laundry in the bags.
4. Two rolls of paper towels
One roll of Viva for my nose and one non-Viva for tablemats and general wiping up.
5. My favorite bed pillow
I never know how many pillows or what quality of pillows I will get. Using my own pillow on top of a hotel pillow, I can sleep more soundly in bed, or in the car when my wife is driving. I use a colorful pillowcase so I will be more likely to remember to take my pillow home with me.
6. Cell phone charger
A must, so I can use my cell phone without worrying about the battery going out.
7. Interdental sticks: for the glove compartment and for the room
I know I will be digging out some trapped food after most meals. The GUM “Soft-Picks” sticks work better for me than dental floss.
8. At least 3 large (gallon) water bottles
I can pour from one of these into smaller bottles. Water goes so quickly on a trip.
9. Suntan lotion
An important health measure. I smear it on even when it’s hazy outside.
10. Blue Ice
I like to take rolls of those 36 little blue ice compartments made by Rubbermaid. You can wrap your mayo in it or drape it over that plastic bag of sliced turkey.
Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen@hotmail.com
