When you are traveling, whether it is for vacation or business, you need to consider many things. Obviously, to begin, a lot can go into the planning process especially if you are planning a vacation. A vacation could be a world wide expedition including many flights, hotel stays and restaurants that need to be planned, or it can be a staycation in your local city to explore. If you are going somewhere for business it could be a meeting a flight away or even an unfortunate family funeral you need to attend. No matter the expense or duration, you will always need to worry about what you bring with you or pack. Here are some expert tips to consider on your next endeavour away from home.
Luggage
Before even thinking about what to bring, you need to consider what bags you are able to bring or pack. You might have sizer or weight restrictions in a car or flight that will only allow you to bring a carry on. If you are going on a road trip alone you may be able to bring all you desire. Either way you need to decide what you are working with so you know what you need to spare. Luggage comes in many shapes and sizes like rolling luggage, duffle bag, wheeled backpack, travel backpack or carry-on.
Be Organized
A very helpful tool when it comes to packing is packing organizers. Packing organizers are individualized bags or zipper compartments to separate your things and keep them organized. They can also be referred to as packing cubes. They can allow you to organize your items by such things as clothing type or activity type. They can also be used to compress your belongings so you can efficiently use the space in your baggage. Besides using the packing organizers or cubes, you can also be organized by starting a list, a packing list. By making a list you can think through what you need to bring and ensure you aren’t forgetting essential items. Be sure to bring those cotton rounds, tampons, chargers, ibuprofen and other random items that run through your head and jot them down on your list.
Stay Basic
Always pack clothing staples when you are leaving town. By packing these simple items you will be able to use them for different outfits and they can be recycled through your “uniform” while away. No one would ever notice the same white t-shirt under a different jacket or scarf. It saves room for you and gives you more options at the same time. Basic t-shirts, pants, underwear, jewelry are all good staple items to bring along.
Toiletries
Toiletries can get tricky because you always want to bring everything with you. Most of the time this just isn’t possible. Some people like to buy travel size items but a way to save some money is to just buy travel bottles that can be reused with the items you already have at home. If you are particular about certain things you use in your daily routine that most establishments don’t regularly provide then for sure bring it along. For example, if you prefer Bamboo toilet paper then be sure you have it. If you know you like a particular lotion then bring that as well. If you are flying then you also need to be aware of the restrictions for carry on liquids.
Electronics
Nowadays it is imperative that you bring all of your day to day electronics and gadgets, especially your phone. Besides your phone, you may want to bring your charger, laptop, ipad, E-reader, headphones, camera, GoPro, video camera, and adapters. Some of these gadgets may help you with travel but some are purely for entertainment purposes. By bringing a tablet you can enjoy a movie or show or read a book on your flight or if you are a passenger in the car to pass the time. Some people may even require a separate little bag or backpack for their electronic devices. So be sure to think about what you require for your destination in advance.
Travel Documents
One of the necessities of travel is to bring the important travel documents. You should always have your passport, personal ID/student ID/license so you are able to be identified. This will be used often because your identity is checked when you do such things as get on a plane, rent a car, check in to your hotel or pick up event tickets to ensure you are who you say you are and are authorized. Besides travel documents you need to be sure you are equipped with the necessary financial resources (i.e. credit cards, cash, travelers checks, etc.).
Leaving home whether it is for business or pleasure is an exciting time. It can be more enjoyable if you take the time to plan and pack what you need so you are prepared.
