The greatest problem I have with travelling is keeping control of all the small electronic items one needs today - USB sticks, cables, adaptors, chargers, spare batteries, banking tokens, etc, etc.
I went to Masters and found a small plastic parts container with divided compartments, that holds and separates all these items perfectly.
I had to cut a few of the dividers out to enable the larger items such as chargers to fit - but overall, this storage system for small, easily lost items, works just fine.
I use plastic shopping bags to hold shoes. These can double as rubbish holders, or just handy carry bags once you unpack. The thicker shopping bags from the likes of the major retailers are best.
I pack any towels bottom and top in my suitcase to protect other items from damage, and pack shoes with soles facing outwards for the same reason.
I also pack a manicure set which is a zipped, paperback-book-sized leather case. This case has enough room in it to pack other small useful items - one of which is either a small multi-tool with pliers, knife and screwdriver blades, or my Swiss knife multi-tool which contains scissors, knives and even a can opener.
There's always a need to cut, repair, or screw up something when travelling. Scissors are one of the most useful little items when you travel.

I agree with most handy packing hints except all airlines will not allow any manicure, swiss knives, scissors or any sharp items (I have been pulled up for a tiny screwdriver) for tightening my spectacles.

elainebruce
Put any "sharps" in your main luggage which gets stowed and you will rarely get stopped (5 trips and counting). It is the hand luggage that sets them into a frenzy.You should have seen the reaction at Sth. Korea going out to a pair of old fashioned long hair pins until I mimed using them.

I always take a can of disinfectant spray with me and on arrival in hotel room or cruise ship room spray everything which I am going to touch, e.g., light switches, tv remotes, etc. Make sure you pack it in your checked baggage. I even pull back the bedclothes and spray mattress and pillows. We have never been sick while away but I know lots of people who have. From Travelling Granny.

I travelled with a metal nailfile in my Handbag and even I did not realise it was there. This was shortly after the 9/11 episode in America & I had travelled via America to Canada.