Here we go again, what to pack! Here are some tips to help you tackle this part of your trip:
* The first, and most important, thing to do is make a list. Without a list, you'll be tempted to pack everything you own, "just in case". Don't think in terms of what you might need on the trip - pare it down to what you absolutely need. Believe it or not, there are stores and shops where you are going. You'll probably find that you didn't need as much as you thought!
* Next, keep in mind that airlines are charging to check 2 bags and some are even starting to charging for the first bag. It is nothing to sneeze at with $100 dollars a bag being reported. There is a new practice of mailing your belonging ahead of time. There is even a company in Europe that will hold it until your arrival, and then deliver it to your destination for you. This service is less than the one or two hundred dollars you would pay to the airlines. Something to look for in the future. There is a need and I’m sure that companies will spring up in the U.S.A. and the Americas.
* Check the weather and the customs at your destination and pack accordingly. Bring a travel umbrella if rain is in the forecast (and leave it at home if it isn't!). Make sure you have something appropriate if you have an audience with the Queen, or are going to a very conservative country. (For example, covering your head in many Middle Eastern Countries)
* Choose 2 or 3 basic solid colors that mix and match, and take separates that can be put together in several combinations. Black, khaki, red, navy and white all work well together (choose, at most, 3 of these colors). Or choose whatever color you wear a lot of, but make sure the colors work together – don’t bring an item that you will wear only once. One or two multicolored print blouses will kick your look and can be used with the solids you choose.
* Bring items you can hand-wash and hang to dry overnight. Lightweight cotton blends, especially blends with nylon, work, as well as silk or silk blends. Silk knits are lightweight and cool, but also layer well for warmth. Bring a small bottle of mild detergent for washing.
* Dark colors and small prints hide wrinkles better than light-colored solids. Choose cottons blended with poly or nylon for light weight and wrinkle resistance. Knits are especially good for travel. There are several online sites and catalogs that special in travel wear, so take the time and look them up.
* Black is especially good if you need something dressy. Avoid taking a dress if you can and stick to the separates. Wear a nice top and pants in black with some simple jewelry, belt or scarf.
* Avoid taking dress shoes. If you wear nice pants for dinner, you can wear comfortable flats, too. Unless you have a special event planned, keep dinner clothing simple.
* Pack more tops than bottoms. You'll be able to wear pants or skirts more than once, but tops are usually worn only once before washing. Make sure you have at least 2 tops for each bottom, and make sure each top will work with more than one bottom.
* Consider bringing a skirt instead of shorts if traveling to a foreign country. A skirt is as cool and comfortable as shorts, but dressier. While shorts are accepted almost everywhere in the U.S., they may not be appropriate in other countries. A good length is at the knees for comfort and acceptability.
* Comfortable walking shoes are very important, especially for shopping and sightseeing. But big, white athletic shoes are distinctively American, so if traveling abroad and don't want to look like a tourist, look for something a bit less athletic. There are a variety of comfortable walking shoes. They are not fashionable but they don’t scream "tourist!" Looking like a tourist can make you a target for thieves.
* What you wear on the plane should also be considered wardrobe for the trip. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Don't wear a heavy coat if you are going to a warm destination, even if it's winter at home. Wear a lightweight, water-resistant jacket with a sweater or sweatshirt underneath, and a long-sleeve top. This should get you from the car to the airport without freezing or getting to warm at your destination.
* A cashmina is a versatile piece to bring. It can be used to dress up a basic outfit, or provide a bit of warmth on a cool evening. It can even be used as a blanket on a plane, so this is a good carry-on for your flight.
* Pack a change of underwear and a top in your carry-on in the event your checked bags are lost. You really don't need more than this (unless you can fit all of your clothing and toiletries in your carry-on.). At the worst, you can buy what you need at your destination.
* If you are staying in a condo or VRBO (vacation rental by owner), there may be a washer and dryer. You can pack half of what you would have, and do a small load of laundry every few days. You can wash your clothes again before going home, so you can relax when your trip is done. Beware of laundry service at a hotel! It can be unbelievably expensive or ruin your clothes!
* You might want to bring a couple of simple pieces of costume jewelry, but do not bring anything expensive, or that will attract thieves. This is not the time to show off your best pieces. One pair of basic earrings and a chain necklace will get you through any day.
* Bring travel-sized toiletries, and items that do double-duty. Don't bring several lotions and fragrances - one good quality, scented lotion will do. Use a combination shampoo & conditioner. Or just use what the hotel provides - the better hotels provide good quality products. Better yet - buy the product you need when you arrive. Finding local stores and products can be part of the adventure.
* If you fill your own small bottles of shampoo, etc., do not fill to the top of the container. Liquids expand on the plane. Put all liquids in a zip-lock bag.
* Remember that liquids are restricted in your carry-on. Only bring what you need for the first day or two, in case your checked luggage gets lost. If you have prescriptions, always carry them on the plane with you.
* Don't bring a hair dryer or iron if you don't need to. Check the hotel website for "amenities" to see if they provide them. Even modest hotels have these basics. (I've only run across a broken hair dryer once, and the front desk provided a replacement).
* Bring a first-aid kit and travel-sized containers of over-the-counter drugs for common ailments. Think double-duty here, too. In addition to band aids, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer to clean cuts as well as cleaning hands when water isn't available. Pain relievers and cold medics are necessities, and allergy pills can double as a safe sleep aid (antihistamines cause drowsiness, and many people have trouble sleeping when traveling). Bring Pepto-Bismol tablets for a variety of stomach ailments
* A Swiss Army knife can be very useful, but remember to pack it in your checked luggage, NOT your carry-on!
* Wear a concealed money belt to hold your valuables. You'll probably be carrying all your money, a credit card, and every important document you own, so protect it from pickpockets by wearing it close to your body, preferably under your clothing. There is a company that specializes in clothing with many hidden pocket, both tops and bottoms. You can buy the clothes already made or there are patterns available so you can sew them up yourself.
* Carry a shoulder bag with straps short enough to hold the bag under your arm or long enough to wear across your torso. A zip top is also a good idea, as long as you keep it closed. Avoid the "fanny pack" - it targets you as a tourist and is easy to get into and grab no matter how it's worn.
This list is for adults that travel, but with a few modifications, it can be applied to families. And lastly, for every traveler out there; take along your sense of adventure, your patience, and your curiosity. They will take you far in the adventures of your life.
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