Trying to decide what to pack can be intimidating sometimes, but if you think ahead to what you are going to be doing while on your trip and make your own list using these tips, it will help make it less stressful. So, let’s get started.
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I have looked at a lot of checklists online to see if there was one that would really help me when I pack because I have forgotten things many times, but most of them seem to be geared toward going places or doing things that I’m not going to be doing. So, I realized that the most important thing to think about before you even start packing is where you are traveling. If you are going to the beach, you will need many different items than if you are going to Alaska. You get my point. Next, I always check the weather before I start packing. If it looks like it might rain when I’m there, then I need to take an umbrella, if the nights are going to get chilly, then I need to pack a jacket and so on.
The other thing that will change for me is if we are going on a road trip or flying. As you know, there are many restrictions when flying, so I keep that in mind. I start my list by going through the motions of what I do during the morning to start my day and then go from there. Let’s get started.
Toiletries
So now to make my list; let’s start with toiletries. So always first on my list is the medications I’ll need. Next, I start thinking about what I do when I get up in the morning. First, I take a shower. What do I need for that? Soap, shampoo, conditioner, razor. Now, here’s one place where I do things differently if I’m flying. I probably won’t take shampoo or conditioner with me because the hotel supplies these and I don’t have to worry about getting travel size containers for these items. I do take soap with me because of my sensitive skin, but if any soap works for you then use the soap in the hotel. If I’m going on a road trip, I’ll probably take these with me, so I have the brand I like. The next thing is toothbrush and paste. Next is any hair products or in my case a curling iron. I think you get the idea. Just go through your daily routine in the morning when getting ready and you should remember everything. I also try to pack the minimal amount of make-up. I bought a small toiletry bag to put a lot of this in.
Clothes
The next thing is clothes. First on my list is always pajamas. Next, what am I going to be doing while on my trip? Am I going to need a jacket? Will I be swimming? What’s the temperature going to be when I’m there, long or short sleeve tops? You probably get my point. Next is how many of everything will I need? I personally wear a lot of jeans, so usually two or three pair will suffice most trips. Can you get away with just a few pair of pants and then add a shirt for everyday you’ll be there? Most important is to think about what you’ll be doing while you’re there to help determine what you want to wear. Don’t forget shoes. I usually take an extra pair and either flip flops or slippers to wear in the hotel room. That way I have two pair of shoes and something comfy for the room.
Extras
Next is miscellaneous items, do you need jewelry, a scarf, an umbrella? Don’t forget to think about this type of stuff. I used to just leave them off my list, sure I would remember to pack them and of course I forgot. This is also where if I’m going on a road trip, I will add more items. We usually pack a cooler, take extra drinks for the hotel room, etc. I also take a laundry bag with me to help sorting dirty from clean when we get home. I have one that is collapsible and can be washed so you can just throw it all in the washer when you get home. They can take up a bit of space in your suitcase when you fill them, but it should take the same space your clean clothes took.
Electronics
Last but not least, all of our electronics. I sometimes think that maybe I should leave them at home, but then I really like my kindle so I can read, especially on the plane or if I’m going to the beach. If you are like me, a kindle is a wonderful item because not only can you read on it, but also use it a lot like your laptop or tablet. So, then I have to make sure I add cords, chargers, etc. to my list because I really don’t want to have to buy new ones. Think about taking an extension cord also, because sometimes in the hotel rooms plugs aren’t in convenient places. And no matter what, we always have our phones and have to remember our chargers.
Conclusion
For me, even though I always feel like it’s going to be such a chore to pack for a trip, once I sit down and think through what I will really need, packing becomes much easier. If you picture what you need every day at home and really think about where you are going, you should be well prepared for your trip. I hope that this helps you too! Have fun and enjoy your adventures!! If you are looking for a new adventure, please read some of our other posts and find your inspiration.
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