Packing For Trips - Checklist
Each trip we take will require different things - every time. We can't pack the same for a trip to Mexico as we do for a trip to Italy. When you are traveling to foreign countries, check their laws requiring shots and vaccinations before entering their country. Also check to see if you'll need electrical outlet adapters for all your items you plug in (hair dryer, curling iron, electric razors, battery chargers, etc.)
Some helpful hints:
- You should always take a carry on bag (on planes) that have a change of clothes, medication, bottle of water, important papers, wallet, checks, etc. in case your luggage gets lost. You should also bring a sweatshirt or jacket on the plane since it is usually somewhat chilly.
- Put your passports, airline tickets, identification, etc. in an easily accessible purse or wallet since you have to have them several times while at the airport.
- Even though it's not always easy - less is always better when traveling, especially when flying. Bring clothes you can wash at the hotel and always bring comfortable shoes. If you find you need 6 pairs of shoes to match 6 different outfits, you may want to take different clothes.
- If you have any clothes that you can roll to pack, it will take up less room and also not cause as many wrinkles.
- Take a bundle of wire hangers since most hotels don't supply you with enough to hang all your clothes.
- Bringing a non-aerosol air freshener is nice to have in hotel rooms to make it smell nicer and homier.
- If you know you will be bringing more stuff back then what you left with, bring an extra bag in a suitcase that can be checked in on your way home. Make sure it's sturdy to make it through baggage claim.
- Dress comfortable for the airport. With all the walking and standing and then sitting while you're on the plane, comfort is a must.
- Shampoo is a good substitute for shaving cream. This will save room on packing the large cans of shaving cream.
- If you go somewhere that makes your hair frizzy and fly away - rub a little lotion on your hands and pat down your hair. Don't let the lotion be too thick or it will stick in your hair - this is to get rid of the static electricity. You can also use conditioner and do the same thing.
What to pack:
- toothbrush /toothpaste / dental floss / mouth wash
- shampoo / conditioner
- soap / body wash / shower gel
- lotion
- make-up
- facial products (cleansers, toners, creams, etc)
- hair brush / comb
- hairspray / gel / mouse / scrunchies / barrettes
- deodorant / antiperspirant
- razors
- shaving cream
- nail polish / remover / cuticle cream / clippers / nail file
- underwear / boxers
- bras / sports bras
- pajama's
- socks / nylons
- belts / ties
- tee-shirts
- pants / skirts / shorts
- sweaters / sweatshirts, jackets
- bath robe
- slippers (to walk around hotel room)
- shoes / boots / sandals / flip-flops
- hats / bandana's
- glasses / reading glasses / sunglasses
- contacts / solution / contact holder
- cuff links / handkerchief (for suit)
- bathing suit / swim shorts
- sarong
- camera / video camera
- batteries for all cameras
- first aid kit