The secret of savvy travellers is packing right. Packing comes down to looking collectively at what you’re taking and eliminating the unnecessary. They’ll still be there waiting for your return, don’t they?
Without a bag to check, exiting from planes and airports becomes a breeze. You can also maneuver trains, taxis and other means of transport with extreme ease. So, what should you pack?
1. Paper Work
Don’t leave home without your passport. Keep in mind that passport requirements vary from one country to another. To be safe, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your trip. The State Department endorses renewing your passport nine months before its expiry. Renew or apply for one online through the State Department website and pay passport cost.
In addition to your passport, it’s wise to carry your local ID or driver’s license as it serves an additional proof of identity.
Boarding pass is another crucial document you shouldn’t forget. If you intend to use mobile boarding pass, ensure you have internet access. Some countries won’t allow you in without a copy of itinerary. Pack a copy to appease border acceptance agent.
Other documents include:
- Copies of important documents such as passport, and ID
- Extra passport pictures
- Petty cash
- Debit card without ATM Fees
- Credit card with minimal or no transaction fees
2. Toiletries
For everything to fit in a single quart bag, cut down on your toiletries to essentials only. For carry-ons, keep your gels and liquids to a maximum of 3.4-ounce bottles. It’s recommended that the bottles should fit into a single quart plastic bag.
You don’t have to pack toiletries if space is at a premium. Instead, buy them at your destination. That relieves you the 3.4-ounce recommendation. However, pack a face wash, toothbrush and toothpaste to feel human while cruising.
3. Electronics
Electronics vary from one traveler to another. However, here are some basic ones:
- Unlocked smartphone for local SIM: Buy SIM card at your destination for affordable calls, SMS, and data.
- Smartphone charger
- Earbuds
- Travel adapter: Choose one that fits in all plugs worldwide.
- Power Strip: To charge all your electronics via one outlet.
- Laptop and charger
- Tablet and charger
4. Travel Gear
Choosing the right travel gear can be overwhelming. You have to balance your budget and the best gear. Nonetheless, pick few versatile high-quality items that will hold up under the rigors of travel. Some of them include:
- Carry-on luggage: pick one that reflects your style and satisfies airline’s luggage rules.
- Personal Item: small daypack, messenger bag, purse or duffel.
- Luggage lock
- Packing cubes to separate dirty and clean clothes.
- Travel towel
- Water bottle
- Earplugs and eye mask for long flights.
5. Clothes
Your wardrobe will depend on your style, weather at destination, and length of trip. Choose your preferred clothes as long as they can fit in your carry-on bag.
