Many years ago (in the days of beloved forum member LoveItaly) there was a post about things we take on the plane and trips in general. People reported bringing sharp kitchen knives for apartment rentals, duct tape, extension cords. My fond memory of this post were two things - one was "a gripping novel" (not the stuff you think you're going to catch up on, not homework, not the Iliad) and a pair of new pajamas to slip in to when you finally make it to your destination. I've loved these two pieces of advice all these hundred years. If you're still out there, thank you Forum members!

In 2004, a group of friends were talking about renting a villa in Tuscany. The two chefs planned to bring their chef knives.

I miss LoveItaly.

Nice memory post. We should continue this. I used to take a little knife with a cover for paring fruit. Often still take one in the car. I like the new pajamas idea. Might need some recommendations for those.

For some reason, I always buy new pajamas for my trips.

I used to travel with a pair of kitchen shears, since strong scissors often come in handy. Haven't brought them since 9/11, though.

I loved how hotels in Japan had pressed pjs in the drawer in our rooms.
I always brought home six packs of olive oil and wine in cardboard carry on
containers. And we always traveled with a Swiss Army knife and a wine opener in our carry on.

Taking a knife I can see being handy as I once needed one. It didn’t have to be metal so I just take one of those plastic place settings now. I also always take a pillow, fleece blanket and a set of those space saving bags. When I remember, my slippers also come along. If I am renting a place to stay, a roll of toilet paper has been useful. I once got stuck when I realized the place didn’t have much and shops were closed the next day when I thought I could buy some.