As I prepare for my amazing tropical get away I have been double and triple checking in my head of what to bring and what is really necessary. With summer starting off with a bang, I feel these items are necessary for most trips whether they are a few days or months long. These items fall under the category of down right can't forget them!

1. Sunglasses

You would hate to forget a pair of these bad boys. You'll be living on the beach for the next week or so, shielding your eyes from the sun should definitely be top priority.

2. Bathing Suit(s)

Always good to have more than one! Tropical destinations and resorts usually have multiple pools, hot tubs, and beaches to attend too. You may hit the beach at 8 in the morning, change, have lunch and then want to hit up the pool. If one bathing suit is still wet from the beach, it is always good to have an extra! Also, who doesn't love showing off all their cute suits.

3. Snacks

Snacks are always good to have on long plane rides where the snacks on the plane are expensive and limited in their options. Also, always good to have a stash in your room for late night hunger pains after all your nightly adventures and in a new place where you may not be familiar with the food!

4. Multiple Changes of Clothes

This one is a given but multiples of clothes really is important! The more outfits the merrier. Show off all those summery prints and colors.

5. Sunscreen

Cover yourself ! Even lip balm with sunscreen is a good idea as well (I've learned the hard way). You would hate to remember your vacation by a horrible burn.

6. Travel Pillow

Always good to have one on deck for a long stiff flight or road trip.

7. Headphones

For a noisy plane or loud boat!

8. Hat & Cover Ups

Again, simple but easy to forget! You'll be thanking yourself immensely for covering up.

9. Medicine

Anything you can think of. All the basics like Tylenol, Benadryl, Pepto Bismol, Tums, Airborne, etc. And of course any prescription meds as well. It is always better to be over prepared than under prepared.

11. Travel Documents

A must clearly if you are going out of the country! Always make photocopies as well incase anything important gets lost or stolen.

12. Prepared Gadgets

Charge all your gadgets ahead of time: cell phones, computers, iPods, etc. Make sure you have your cameras and everything else you may need. Also make plans ahead of time for your phone and a possible "travel plan" so you don't rack up an insane bill!

13. Plane Distracters

Whether its an electronic device, a board game or a coloring book-- don't forget it!