It is always useful to have a travel essentials checklist to run through whether you're a frequent traveler or a first-timer. This is to ensure that you've got everything covered from small stuff like hand sanitizer to health and travel insurance.

There's always an advantage when you travel smart and avoiding hassles that might ruin your entire trip. Here is the ultimate travel packing list that every traveler must have.

Travel Documents, Cash and Credit Cards.

This is a good starting point. It is a good idea to have a travel document organizer where you can put your passport/visa(s), photo ID, frequent flyer cards, credit cards, health insurance cards, travel itineraries, hotel and tour contact information, transportation tickets, emergency contacts and important addresses.

It is advisable to double check your passports and IDs expiration dates months before your travel. Just so you have ample time to renew or update your personal details if need to. You may also want to inform the bank that you're going overseas so they will be more vigilant with regard to fraudulent activities using your card. Most of the banks have this in mobile phone application, though, so don't hesitate to do this precaution. It's just a click away anyway. Keep all your important documents in your email or cloud storage in case you need to access them online.

Prepare Your Personal Item Carry-On Bag

The next important thing you need to do is prepare your personal item carry-on bag with all your must-bring stuff in it. It's always a good idea to bring along some essential toiletries just in case your check-in lugged is lost. Make sure it's inside a container and limited to the allowed amount or quantity, though. Of course, don't forget to have an outfit or two. Always remember to use a bag with easy access and pack light because you'll be carrying all this all along.

A small backpack with a mobile device, camera, electrical converters, adapters, and chargers is recommended.  Bringing a journal and pen, hand sanitizer and prescription in original packaging may be considered also. More of tips in Travel Smart With The Ultimate Travel Packing List Part 2.