10 Travel Essentials Guests Forget Abroad, Says a Hotel Concierge

Perhaps no person in the travel hospitality world receives more questions on the ground than a hotel concierge. From making the most coveted restaurant reservations to sharing favorite lesser-known landmarks, a concierge’s tips can make or break a great travel itinerary. I recently visited The Langham, London—a historical mainstay that’s been welcoming guests for 160 years—and was thrilled to chat with Rashid Ali, who has worked as the head concierge at the hotel for 34 years. 

“What I enjoy most is being a bridge between guests and London itself,” says Ali. “The Langham sits at the top of Regent Street, so we’re surrounded by world-class shopping, galleries, and theaters. Helping guests go beyond the obvious—whether that’s a private tour at a museum, a stroll through Marylebone’s hidden streets, or securing a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant—is what makes the job truly special.”

Assisting guests to create memorable experiences through the years means Ali has also seen his fair share of requests that shed light on some of the biggest travel mistakes. Common oversights include everything from not packing a universal adapter to lacking the right outfit for events like high tea or a night out at the theater. I spoke with Ali about the ten most common mistakes tourists make during a trip—and what the head concierge’s top picks are to avoid them. 

Best Overall Picks

Layers for Unpredictable Weather

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One of the biggest mistakes Ali sees from guests is packing too much heavy, bulky outerwear. “I recommend thinking about layering clothing,” he says, noting that London can have “four seasons in one day.” Versatile options that are easy to layer, like this cozy cardigan, provide enough warmth for chilly nights with a stylish cut that you can easily match with jeans or a dress. Front pockets and a soft sweater material complete the look to make you ready to go, no matter the event. “West End theatre nights—tickets are always in demand. We recommend packing a light formal layer, such as a chic coat or wrap, and comfortable yet stylish shoes for walking between venues,” says Ali. 

Compact Umbrella

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London is no stranger to rainy days, and as many cities gear up for less predictable weather this fall and winter, Ali says an umbrella is a must-have item for any trip. The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is a lightweight companion that you can throw in your purse and rest assured you’ll be good to go in any climate. This particular umbrella is said to withstand wind of up to 85 miles per hour, so it should hold up even during bad weather.

Comfortable Shoes

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If you’re thinking about bringing your favorite pair of heels on your next trip, you might want to think again. Travel requires a lot of walking, so Ali suggests comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Shoes like the Under Armour Charged Running Shoes are made from lightweight mesh material with extra cushioning around the ankle for comfort and support. Amazon shoppers call them their “favorite” shoes, and many say they can walk miles in them without pain.

Portable Charger

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There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a long sightseeing day and realizing that your phone is on its last leg. “A portable charger is essential for full-day escapades, especially when taking pictures and updating your social media,” says Ali. Traveling with a power bank is crucial for safety and convenience; this Charmast Portable Charger is a Travel + Leisure-tested and loved model due to its built-in cables. Testers also claim it provides up to two and a half full charges on a phone before needing to plug it in again.

Universal Adapter

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Also important for any travel is a universal adapter. Although some hotels can provide them for guests, you’ll want to travel with one of your own, just in case. This Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is a T+L favorite overall pick due to its four different plug types that are compatible with over 200 sockets worldwide and its ability to charge up to six devices at once. 

Crossbody Bag

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Make transporting your items and safety a priority with a reliable crossbody bag. “Choose one with a zipper. This will keep your essentials safe and your hands free,” says Ali. The Pander fanny pack from Amazon is made with water-resistant nylon and stands up against scratches, promising long-lasting durability. Adjustable straps allow you to choose your length, and the spacious zippered interior has three mesh wall pockets inside for extra storage. 

Passport Holder

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Keep your passport easily accessible for hotel check-in with a passport holder that includes space for other essentials like boarding passes, credit cards, ID cards, and more. For added security, there’s an AirTag slot inside the holder and RFID-blocking sleeves to prevent personal data exposure or illegal scanning.

Reusable Water Bottle

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A long day of exploration can easily work up a thirst. An item a lot of hotel guests forget to pack is a reusable water bottle, especially since many hotels now offer refill stations, helping you save money and avoid plastic use. Yeti’s Yonder Bottle with a tether cap is lightweight, leakproof, and BPA-free. It comes with a clip so you can attach it to your bag or backpack for easy transport.

Dressy Attire

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London has its fair share of traditions, including afternoon tea and nights of theater. The city’s dining scene is always booming as well, from Michelin-starred experiences to family-owned pub-style grub, and Ali says you should plan accordingly. “We often secure tables at London’s most sought-after restaurants. Guests should pack a polished outfit: a smart jacket or elegant dress that travels well,” says Ali. This cocktail dress from Amazon fits the bill for a night out in any city when you need to dress to impress. A decorative belt and double bell sleeves give it a classic look, while a mid-calf hemline shows off your favorite pair of shoes. Keep in mind, there are also often guest service perks available; Ali shares that visitors appreciate Langham’s butler suite services, which include unpacking, ironing, and arranging wardrobes for guests. “With these comforts on hand, guests don’t need to worry about packing bulky items or extensive wardrobe care tools—we handle those details for them,” he adds. 

Digital Camera

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We live in a cell phone-dependent world, so a lot of travelers neglect packing a good camera, which could be a smart travel investment for getting a perfect shot, especially when you’re blessed with a concierge who gives you the inside scoop on what to see. This Panasonic point-and-shoot digital camera is an easy-to-use starter option for anyone looking to up their picture game and not have to worry about draining their phone battery throughout the day or having to empty their storage space to take more vacation photos.

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