Packing for a trip is the one thing I’ve always loved. Call me crazy, but I get very excited about my upcoming trips and start packing earlier than most. I know people usually procrastinate and pack at the last minute. But, the planner in me never wants to be left without the key things in my bag that I may need on my trip. I would usually start packing days, if not even a week in advance. And I would pack and re-pack several times in the course of the days leading to the trip. As my travel has become more frequent, I’ve started to pack smarter. And I now only re-pack once.
I usually start by checking the weather at my destination weeks in advance. This is to make sure that I have everything I need and have plenty of time to get/order what I might be missing. I’ve definitely acquired all the little trinkets over time to the point that I might likely now not know where I’ve put it rather than not have it. Which could also lead to requiring extra time for packing.
As all things go, travel packing requires a few steps of review. First your clothes, shoes, and other garments that you’ll want/need to have with you. And while I love to shop for fun clothes and souvenirs, if you’re like me and you enjoy traveling to Asia, but are built on the taller or bigger end of the spectrum, you will likely want to have your basics and your favorites packed first as you’ll have a hard time finding a replacement item at your destination.
Secondly, and probably more importantly, your toiletries. This again greatly depends on your overall routine. But when traveling abroad and having to locate a drugstore to get what you forgot, might be a disappointing way to start your travels. And besides, why spend the cash on things that aren’t what you want. On the other hand, however, if you’re traveling for a long time and know where you’re going will have all you need, you may forgo the extra liquids in your suitcase and the time you save checking a bag, will free up some time to go shopping once you land. The way I travel now, I prefer to have carry-ons only, which means my little bag can only hold the little 3oz/100ml liquids and I have to be thoughtful in advance on what I need.
And finally, your electronics. As we have all become so heavily reliant on technology to get around and “live,” it’s very key to have all of your chargers, converters and plugs figured out so you can charge while abroad. Remember to check the country plug types and wattage to get/bring the correct ones that you need and also extras. If you’re going to be in a touristy center then you’ll likely be able to get some there. However, you’ll be severely overcharged (because you have no options), or they will be subpar quality which will lead you to buy more than you need, wasting time, effort and money.
And above and beyond in all packing requirements here’s my not so complete list of all must haves on a trip:
Passport, Visa’s, IDs
Credit Cards (one primary and 1 back up) - I leave the backup in the safe in a hotel along with my debit card and only take the one I need and only the cash I plan to spend during the day.
Paper copies of key documents (including passport) - I leave these with the cards in the safe. But should anything happen to my originals, and I need to prove my identity, I have something to start working with.
Everyday bag/purse (if you carry one) - something quite average, but with a zipper or a trusty clasp, especially if I take public transportation or go to crowded touristy areas.
Fancy/dressy purse - one that will go with all of the evening items I’m bringing
Shoes for walking - because I love exploring on foot (oh and they have been tested and worn before to assure I don’t mess with blisters). I’ve also left many of my walking/hiking shoes behind at my destinations. They tend to be older and take up some space that I’d like to free up at the end of my trip.
Flip flops (which may come out off the bag if I need room because I love to buy them as souvenirs) but they are key for beach destinations and often when staying at AirBnBs since they don’t provide slippers
Formal shoes - if I’m planning to go to dinners that require it. And outside of US, most formal restaurants will require formal footwear (no white soles, etc). You may want to look that up before you leave. Or pack something “just in case” if you don’t.
Formal dinner attire - depending on the type of trip I’m taking, I will plan at least 2 formal outfits because things happened and you want to have a backup option or two. As a woman, I’ve also found that packing separates makes things easier to mix and match, whereas dresses can go from day to evening very easily. So it really does depend on your preference.
Casual clothes - these I treat similar to my walking/hiking shoes. I like to pack things I don’t mind parting with at the end of the trip. This started accidentally at first. But now I plan for it in advance. I enjoy shopping at my destinations. I’ve purchased anything from amazing vintage dresses in Melbourne, to rompers in Bali. And in an effort to save off checking a bag I make room by leaving my less desirable items behind.
Snacks and things - When I go off on hikes or go exploring more off the beaten path there might not be a shop nearby. I also got into the habit of always packing emergenc-e - which seems to always come in handy.
Meds and things - Remember to pack all of your prescriptions! And also if you don’t want them taken away, you may not want to consolidate them into pill packs and keep original packaging. Zithromax or another antibiotic which can treat food poisoning while traveling. Ask your doctor, tell them where you’re going and they will likely prescribe it to you to take on the road. I learned this the hard way, needing to find local medication in a language I didn’t know. Now I don’t travel without it.
First Aid Kit - generally a good idea to have a small one with you for cuts and scrapes on the road.
Miscellaneous items that make me happy:
Reusable water bottle
Ear plugs
Ear pods
iPad
Backup battery
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Extra plastic bags
Cheap sunglasses
Backup phone
And this is my favorite versatile carry on suitcase. And while it doesn't fit all overhead space, it will fit most international airlines. It also comes with a portable charger, which is great to have on the road. You can find it here:
PS. This is not an ad, I really do love this suitcase :)
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