So this is the the standard list of items I always consider packing when I go on vacation (usually overseas)  and I’ll obviously modify as it is necessary depending on where you go and how light you need to pack. A good tip is to save a packing list in your archived emails so you won’t forget essential items!

In no particular order…

First aid (couple band aids and neosporin)
OTC Painkillers
Small scissors- great for removing tags and loose thread
Mini flashlight
Plastic bags for wet clothes, shoes, etc.
Zip lock bags- good for placing electronics inside if you’re going somewhere wet/rainy
Vacuum sealed bags (can pack almost 2x as much)
Extra favorite makeup (other makeup and toiletries can easily be purchased, usually your favorite is not easy to find)
Towel (yoga or quick dry)- this is especially important when you’re on the go and not staying in one location for long
Shower dress/bag for toiletries/shower shoes- I grouped these together; this is for those staying in accommodations with shared bathrooms
Febreeze
Antibacterial Hand Lotion
Lysol spray and wipes
Tide Travel- when I travel overseas for a good period of time, I’ll usually take enough clothes for 1/2 the trip and wash my clothes sometime in the middle of the trip.  That way, you have extra room for souvenirs or more clothes 😉
Language app on iPhone- download before you go, sometimes you’ll need wifi to download depending on the app
Extra pair of headphones- I find it hard to buy replacement ones on the road that fit your ears well
Extra contacts/glasses
Extra iPhone battery- buy one of those rechargeable ones and bring with you
Adaptors for international outlets- you can also buy these in most convenience stores but you can find an “all in one” system for pretty cheap.
Power adapters
Bathing suit that can dry quickly
Day pack bag
Lightweight, collapsable duffel bag- in case you end up buying too much to bring back, you can store your clothes in here
Emergen-C – this should speak for itself because you’ll be exposed to who the heck knows what
Prescriptions
Straightener
Light sweater that can match all of your clothes- it doesn’t matter if you’re going to Costa Rica in the middle of the summer. You’ll be cold.
Warm outfit and a cooler weather outfit- same sentiment as above; even if you might be going somewhere incredibly hot or cold.
Flats for day/going out
Collapsible bag for shopping
Walking shoes
Small blanket (for travel and picnics)- this isn’t really necessary, but I love taking advantage of being outside
Scarf -neutral color
Copies of passport (paper and e-mailed to you)
Student ID- this one is funny but you might be able to get some great deals!
Carabiners
Light clothes that can dry easily
Shorts
Sunglasses
something to read/do on long plane/train rides
Skype downloaded with some Skype credit to make calls home on wifi

Hope this list was helpful.  Obviously, this is more geared to females, but I think anyone can take something from it! 🙂