Traveler’s Guide to Packing

Traveler’s Guide to Packing – When traveling to a foreign country, the main concern is making sure that we have everything you need. For some, the most common mistake is to adhere to the philosophy of ‘better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it’. In reality, the most practical rule is to pack light and only get the essentials. Here’s our traveler’s guide to packing.

Always be sure to check the size/weight limit of carry-on luggage with the airline you are flying. For most, the size of the carry-on bag must not exceed 45 linear inches. It is very important that your carry-on luggage has at least one complete change of clothes so that in the unfortunate situation that your checked luggage is delayed you will not be overly inconvenienced. Security regulations prohibit taking certain items in your carry-on luggage. To double-check current restrictions, read these procedures:

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Most tropical destinations require lightweight clothing for the day, trousers and long sleeves at night, as the temperature could drop considerably, and a small portable umbrella or light rain coat for occasional showers. Casual wear is suitable in most places and only the most exclusive dining rooms encourage guests to dress for dinner.  We suggest you leave the expensive jewelry at home, remember the rule is to take as little as possible.

 

Here’s a customizable list:

  • 1 long-sleeved shirt/blouse.
  • Light long trousers
  • A hat that shades your neck and forehead.
  • A pair of well broken in walking shoes (boots, sneakers, etc.)
  • Fleece or sweater and a warm jacket for cold or rainy seasons.

Travel Documents:

  • Passport and photocopies of passport
  • Visa required for the trip
  • Travel Insurance including insurer details and emergency contacts
  • Flight tickets, E-tickets
  • Copies of passport size photos
  • Photograph of luggage contents in case of loss

General Accessories:

  • Electrical adapter plugs, and converter if needed.
  • Camera, film/memory cards and extra batteries.
  • Cell phone
  • Comfortable day pack to carry personal needs.
  • Ziploc plastic bags for electronics and film.
  • A digital photo storage unit, such as a flash drives or pen drives may come in handy 
  • Dust proof camera bag
  • Chargers for your cell phone, camera, video camera, etc.

First aid and toiletries:

  • First aid kit that should include: Antiseptic/Antihistamine Cream, Band aid and bandage, Imodium and other anti-diarrhea medicine, aspirin or other pain killer, malaria tablets.
  • Toiletries: toothpaste, soap.
  • Baby wipes or wet wipes.
  • Insect repellent containing DEET and insect bite cream or gel.
  • Lip balm/lip gloss
  • Feminine hygiene products, hair spray, deodorant, shampoo, razors

Prescription medication:

  • Make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription(s).
  • If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you should have with you a spare pair of glasses or enough lenses and cleaning solutions to last your trip. Also carry with you a copy of your prescription.

This list is intended to be used as a blueprint that can be built upon to accommodate your needs during your travels. Just remember the most important rule: pack light and only pack the essentials.