Indispensible! This credit-card sized 'tool box' has everything: scissors, pen, blade, tweezers, magnifying glass, light, nail file, etc. Remember to put it in your checked baggage, or airport security will take it.

For those gadget-loving travelers, this is a great tool! Twelve languages spoken and written: English, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Swedish, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, and Turkish.

This pack has height-adjustable features and is actually quite comfortable. If you can, find a travel backpack with a zip-off/removable daypack. Sporting/outdoors shops usually have a good selection.

This is a great tool, but remember to get a voltage converter if you plan on bringing any appliances that can't convert. Most laptops and some cell phones will automatically convert to the correct voltage. Thinking about bringing a hairdryer? Forget it. You won't want to schlep it around, and trying to use it with a converter will be a disaster.

You may opt for disposable foam ear plugs, but I prefer reusable ones. An absolute must for planes, trains, and hostels! NRR is 20 decibels. (Etymotic also makes a version called 'Baby Blues' for those with smaller ear canals.)

Planning on taking a shower in a hostel or communal bathroom? You'll need flip-flops. Bring the ones you already own, or get a cheap pair BEFORE you leave the US. You'll be hard-pressed to find them overseas, even in the summer.

Loop the ends of this clothesline around a doorknob, desk chair, shower head, bed post, etc., and stick any wet clothes through the slots in the braid (no clothespins necessary!). Made of stretchy, durable surgical rubber.

Wary of hotel/hostel pillows? You may want to bring your own. This one folds compactly. If you're limited for space, though, skip this.

If you want to pack lightly, you'll need some fast air-drying undies. Wash them at night and hang them to dry while you sleep. Using this method, you could easily get by with just 3 or 4 pairs for your entire trip. Ex-Officio and Patagonia are two great brands for men's and women's quick-drying activewear.