Essential Items For All Of Us Last-Minute Packers
Let it be known that even the most organized of planners can forget something, so it never hurts to go through a checklist to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy your much-awaited vacay stress-free, whether on the beach or skiing.
Here is a list of all the things people tend to forget in all their last-minute packing panic!
Swimsuits
This should be the first thing you pack. Imagine how disappointed you'd be if you get to your hotel and find it has a really nice pool, but you forgot your swimsuit and there are no shops around! Better safe, not sorry.
The Three-Bag Rule
One bag for going out to dinners or dancing, just big enough for keys and wallet. One bag for travel, medium-sized, to fit your passport and a water bottle, but small enough for items to be quick to find within it. Lastly, one larger tote bag for shopping in markets once you arrive.
Phone And Camera Chargers
Don't even try to pretend you're not already thinking of a caption for your Insta post of one of the 200 photos you'll be taking. It would really suck if you got there and you couldn't even take the picture let alone post it because your phone and camera are dead and you have no charger.
Toothpaste And Toiletries
Depending on where you're going, you can't rely on the front desk providing you with basic toiletries. Yet, this is reported by Amazon as the second most forgotten item by travelers. Your safest bet is to pack a bag with travel-sized sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Scarves
This travel must-have is multi-purpose. You can wrap yourself in it on a cooler night or on the plane, but it's also very useful when visiting more conservative areas, like church tours. A light scarf is also handy for covering shoulders to avoid sunburns.
Hat And Sunglasses
If you're escaping to somewhere sunny, make sure you're prepared. Imagine being on a guided tour and walking around squinting because the sun is in your eyes and you can't see. These two items will not only give your face a little bit of shade, but they will also protect you.
The "Three S" Shoe Guide
Sandals, sneakers, and super nice shoes. We just came up with this "Three S" rule to help you remember. You'll need sneakers as a closed-toe shoe for physical excursions, sandals for hot weather and comfort, and super nice shoes for the nighttime and fancier areas.
A Rain Jacket Or Windbreaker
Almost all destinations are at risk of getting a little chilly or dripping a little rain, so it's always a smart idea to pack a light jacket and be prepared for rain or shine.
Health Card And Insurance
Well, first off, don't forget your wallet. But more importantly, make sure you include your health card and any purchased travel and health insurance, because you never know what might happen. Safety first!
Any Prescription Medication
This is especially important if you are traveling somewhere where you don't know the language because medications can hold different names in different places. Make sure you pack enough of any medication you are prescribed. If you can, pack some painkillers and a first aid kit for emergencies.
Don't Forget Underwear
You'd be surprised at how many travelers get so caught up in packing their carefully planned nice outfits that they completely forget to pack what goes under! Try to pack extra pairs of socks, underwear, and pajamas for your stay, just in case.
Essentials For Safari
Many of the planes that drop you off in safari-specific locations only allow a 25-pound duffel bag, so you want to pack efficiently and not stylishly. Pack lightweight, durable, quick-drying garments. Some specific items you'll need include: flashlights, batteries, cash for tipping, binoculars, bandanas, and a camera!
Essentials For A Trip To Disney
Some items will make your trip a little more magical: a fanny pack to keep your belongings in on rides, hand sanitizer for holding onto railings all day, dressing-up items (like Mickey Mouse ears) because they will cost a fortune there, and a portable charger so you can take pictures all day.
Essentials For Southeast Asia
Yes, they have some of the most gorgeous beaches, but they also have A LOT of mosquitos. We recommend packing dry insect repellent, a mosquito net because not everywhere has one, and after-bite for when the damage is already done.
Essentials For Festivals
Add a mat in your backpack straps to sit on during dance breaks! It also tends to get quite hot and humid among the crowds, so packing things like a portable fan, lip-balm, and moisturizing sunscreen will go a long way.
Essentials For Backpacking
You're going to want to invest in comfortable, high-quality boots to conquer even the longest of hikes. A good tent will also be your new home, so make sure to include a warm sleeping bag and a sleeping pad so you feel rested for all your adventures. Additional must-haves include LED lights, a water bottle, and an old-fashioned map.
The Carry-On Only Essentials
Certain things shouldn't be compromised just because you're only taking a carry-on bag. Take it as an opportunity to have everything you need with you on the flight. This means you should include noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, a shaving kit or a makeup bag, snacks, and the book you've been waiting to find the time to read.
Essentials For Multiple Climates
The key to conquering a trip with multiple climates is to pack dual-purpose clothing. This means more accessories like bags, hats, and scarves, and fewer shoes. Jewelry will also allow you to dress up or down without packing more clothing.
Essentials For Ski Trips
Spoiler alert: It's going to be cold! You don't want to be too cold to have fun, so here are your key items: base layers, a ski jacket, mittens, ski pants, a hat or an ear warmer headband, fuzzy socks, winter boots, a neck gaiter (much more comfortable than a scarf), and ski goggles!
Essentials For A Weekend Getaway
It's so easy to get carried away packing for just a weekend trip, but really, all you need is one statement piece per day that will easily take you from day to night. The easiest combo is comfortable jeans and a nice top, but a cute dress or a leather jacket can achieve the same goal.
