Packing for the spectacular vacation
Obviously if you are spending a week in Paris your suitcase won’t have the same clothes as if you were spending a week on the beach, but there are still some simple guidelines.
First, less is better. Just how many pairs of shoes do you really need? Beyond the fees that airlines are charging, the pain of ‘schlepping’ bags gets old really fast and makes the trip less enjoyable.
Hint: Leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
Pack your medications, toiletries, cell phone and one day worth of clothes in your carry-on.
Critical Items
Medications– Keep them in their prescription bottles. Note: Many insurance companies limit how often you can purchase medication so make arrangements with your doctor and the insurance companies to make sure you have enough for your planned travel PLUS a few extra days.
Money- Keep it on you in your front pockets, money belt or small purse that closes and can stay close to you. Hint: Always have some small bills in American dollars and get some foreign currency from your bank before you leave. ATM’s are not on every corner overseas like they are here.
ID– Same as money
The Basics
Clothes- Underwear- bring enough to last through the trip plus one or two extras.
General clothing- Consider what you will be doing, how long you’ll be gone and if you will have access to free or inexpensive laundry facilities.
For casual trips- Plan on wearing outfits at least twice. People touring are far more interested in the sites than what you are wearing. For a week, 4-5 shirts, 3-4 pairs of pants or shorts.
Don’t bring that new dress or expensive suit unless there is a specific event that you know you’ll need to wear it. It takes up space and you’d hate to lose it to that great ‘black hole of lost luggage’.
Bring two pairs of comfortable shoes and one for the beach or an evening out if needed.
Toiletries- Bring your toothbrush and toothpaste. But, unless you really want to use your own soap and shampoo, save space and money by using what is provided by the hotels.
If you do use your own make sure to follow the 3-1-1 rule. Places like Target sell the bottles in a bag which can make your life a lot easier.
Electronics- Its always good to have a cell phone when you travel. Unless you are traveling for business leave the laptop home, its just one more thing to carry and risk losing. Don’t forget your chargers and if you are leaving the USA, make sure you have the proper adapter and or converter as needed.
Some good ideas are
Bring a small first aid/personal items kit- Band-aids, small toothbrush, aspirin,
Bring anti-diarrhea medication, cough drops, sunscreen, antibiotic ointment
Use old luggage
More tips- Packing tips every traveler should know
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Lots more tips to come on the do’s and don’ts, advice from good sources and more
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