My family and I have travelled enough to learn from our past mistakes when it comes to packing. Here is a list of things to keep you from forgetting those essentials. It feels good to pack light and pack right!
Documents
Where ever you go, always remember to keep a copy of your flight and car transfer confirmations on hand as well as your credt/debit card, some extra cash and i.d. I tend to keep these important documents with me at all times. Leave the unnecessary documents (i.e. store credit cards) at home. To be extra safe, make a photocopy of your passport and keep the originals in your hotel room safe.
Photo Credit: Yutaka Tsutano
Electronics
Capturing every moment of our family adventure on camera is essential. I always bring extra batteries, chargers, memory cards and a disposable water camera (for beach vacations). That doesn’t only go for my cell phone but it also goes for other devices as well. Even better, some hotels nowadays have iPod docking stations so you can listen to your own tunes.
Medical
Nowadays you can find almost every must-have OTC (over the counter) medicine in a travel size. We always carry cough, allergy, and pain medication on us in case of an emergency. You never know what may happen on vacation. One time, my daughter broke out in a bad rash due to a certain sunscreen I used on her. I literally had to take an hour long bus ride to get to the nearest pharmacy where I could purchase some anti-histamine lotion. If you take regular medication, jot down the prescription number, doctor’s phone number and pharmacy’s phone number – just in case!
Photo Credit: Ginny
Toiletries
Just like medicine comes in travel sizes, you could probably find your favorite shampoo in a travel size. Soap, wipes, mouthwash, deodorant, lotions, etc., can all be found in the travel size section of your pharmacy. Not only are they super cute by easy to pack too.
Just in Case
Whether you’re traveling to a warm or cool destination always bring an out of season outfit just in case! There have been a handful of times where my destination was supposed to be warm but it turned out to be freezing! This might be a little superstitious on my end, but I always pack an umbrella too. I figure if I bring it, it won’t rain. 😉
Photo Credit: Peyri Herrera
For The Ride
My 8 year old loves to read, draw and play cards to keep busy on the way to our destination. Travel size toys are always fun. The best thing to do is go to your local discount store and grab a few things for $5. Toys, crayons, and puzzles always make a rather long flight a little easier and far more entertaining.
Luggage/ Carry On
We love these bright and unique name tags for our luggage but tying a colorful string or bright tape can help you distinguish your suitcase from a bunch of similar looking ones. When it comes to carrying on, remember to always check your airline requirements for size and weight.
Photo Credit: Highways Agency
Roll, Don’t Fold
You may think this is crazy but I never fold, I roll my clothes instead. By rolling, I get more space out of a suitcase. Believe it or not, it helps with the wrinkles too! Try it and see for yourself.
Keep Fresh
Keep your luggage smelling fresh till you get home to wash the dirty laundry. Simply stick a couple of dryer sheets in between clothes. Dryer sheets give your suitcase a dose of instant freshness. A plastic bag to keep any wet items is always a great way to keep any unwanted smells out too.
I hope this list helps you out some next time you travel.
What would you add to this nifty list?
XO.
