What To Pack When Traveling?

It is always challenging when packing carry-ons especially if you are trying to cram all your belongings into a suitcase. No matter if your vacation will last for several days or several weeks, it is easy to travel if you do not carry too many things with you. Here are some essential items to include when packing for any trip.

1. Versatile Clothing

Try to pack non-restrictive clothing that can be worn for multiple occasions and settings. To make the process of outfitting as straightforward as possible, the best approach is to limit the number of colors used to 2-3.

For tops, carry 3-4 t-shirts or other similar light clothing, 1-2 blouses or other better clothes, 1 sweater or cardigan. Opt for fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle such as cottons, synthetics and rayon/ viscose.

For bottoms, take 1 pair of jeans, 1-2 leggings or sleepwear for flights or sleeping, and 1-2 shorts or skirts. Choose fabrics such as denim, jersey or fabrics reminiscent of athletic wear.

For casual wear, restrict the number of dresses/skirts suits to 1-2 that can be worn both formally and informally.

Underwear, swimsuits if necessary, nightwear, and one or two exercise/sports wear.

2. Shoes

Shoes should be restricted to 2-3 pieces, including sneakers, sandals, and one pair of flip-flops for showering or beach use. Ensure they are comfortable to wear, especially round the wrists, to prevent blisters. If the vacation includes traveling to subzero climates or planning a business dinner or wedding, dress appropriately.

3. Outerwear

Pack a thin and compact raincoat or any other form of a jacket, in case the weather changes or if the climate control system is on high, back home. For cold weather destinations also pack hats, gloves, and scarves.

4. Toiletries

Empty your shower gels, liquid soaps, shampoos and other toiletries into separate travel size, spilling proof bottles or containers. Take only what will be required for the period of the journey. Do not leave behind any necessary items needed for the day such as contact lenses and solution, glasses, medications, and simple first aid items.

5. Luggage + Packing Aids

Carry your clothes in a portable suitcase that has wheels and handles for easy maneuvering. They are also suitable for short journeys. Clothing should be properly packed with the aid of packing cubes, folders, tubes and organizers to ensure a neat arrangement that also optimizes space. Compression bags are useful when packing clothes that take up much space such as sweaters and jackets.

6. Electronics + Adapters

Take your laptop/tablet and your phone including the chargers for the laptop/tablet and the phone. Carry 1 travel adapter with USB outlets to reduce rivalry for outlet connection. Do not leave behind your camera, your e-reader, headphones or portable speakers for the flight/downtime. Always ensure the external batteries are fully charged for use in case of any emergency.

7. Important Documents

Be sure to carry a hard or soft copy of your identification/passport, reservation, boarding passes, travel/health insurance policies. For international destinations, understand the visa and COVID entry protocols. Inform someone at home of your detailed schedule in case of any mishap.

8. Miscellaneous Essentials

Some of these essentials are hand sanitizers, band aids, aspirin or paracetamol, sleep mask or ear plugs in case one has to sleep in a new environment or in a moving vehicle, a small umbrella or raincoat in case of rainy showers, a stain eraser for accidental spills, miniature sewing kit in case of a wardrobe malfunction and a small torch in case of a power failure or poor visibility at night.

What Not To Pack

Do not pack too many shoes because they are bulky and add weight to the luggage. Avoid overloading tops/bottoms – repeat the outfits, if possible, and wear layers for different temperature. Avoid taking hardcover books, expensive pieces of jewelry or anything which is very heavy as it may be very tiring to carry around. Take the bare minimum and avoid taking bulky or items that are used only occasionally.

The Number One Rule – Pack Light

It is now possible to finally take your packing check-list and pack your belongings as compact and orderly as possible into a suitcase. The golden rule? Pack light! Do not include items that are not necessary or that you will not be using in your home. if you have an item that fits in two or more categories, try and minimize on the number of sets you pack. And don’t forget that there is always a little bit more space for souvenirs that one can buy in different countries!

With some planning with the help of this packing guide, your luggage will be carry-on only no matter where your next trip will be! Safe travels!

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