Packing mishaps range from minor inconveniences (like heading to Cabo without a swimsuit) to downright disastrous (getting to the airport only to discover your passport is missing…yikes!).
But most packing problems can be easily avoided. Here is a list of things that I pack when I travel in addition to the obvious….such clothes, makeup, travel-size toiletries etc.
- Passport (check the expiration!)
- Insurance Cards
- Credit Cards
- Bank Card
- Driver’s License (again double check the expiration date)
- Insurance Documentation
- Local Currency
- Charging Cords for all Electronic Devices
- Portable Phone Charger
- Masks
- Hand Sanitizer
- Sanitation Wipes
- SunScreen
- Bug Spray
- First Aid Kit
- Pain Relief
- Antacids
- Tide Stick
- Wrinkle Release Spray
- Travel Size Dr. Bronner Magic Soap
- Small Ziplock Bags
- Pens
- Refillable Water Bottle
** This list is not meant to be all encompassing. You probably have a few items that you would add to your list. Let me know what you would add to the list in the comments below.
How do you pack? Are you a clothes folder or a roller?
I roll my clothes and pack them neatly inside of packing cubes. Why? Because with packing cubes, I know exactly where my clothes are when I need them and there’s not a mess in my suitcase…no missing socks! Plus with packing cubes you can get more clothes into a smaller space. This is also super helpful if you’re travelling to multiple destinations where you need to pack and unpack over and over again.
I typically pack clothes that are wrinkle resistant and easy to hand-wash. If they do come out a bit wrinkled, that’s where the wrinkle release spray comes in. I just put my cubes with the rolled clothes in the dresser drawers and voila! I’m organized and dressed for a night on the town in no time.
Do you want to know a secret?
Unlike a lot of travellers, I don’t always bring a carry-on bag when I fly. Especially if I don’t have to pay for checked bags but even so, I try not to over-pack as much as possible. Besides, who wants to deal with lugging a giant suitcase around the airport…not to mention stuffing it into the overhead bins while everyone stares at you. No, thanks!
I generally plan for two outfits per day, one for day-time activities and one for evening. I also bring 3-4 pairs of shoes – comfortable walking shoes that I wear on the plane, work out shoes in case I feel ambitious, evening shoes in a neutral tone so they go with everything. And of course…flip flops!
Keep these tips handy for your next adventure – but of course – hiring a travel advisor is always a good idea to make sure you have everything you need when you need it! Contact me to get started.