Planning a trip can be fun and exciting. It can also be stressful especially when the packing process begins. Following are some useful strategies that have proven to be effective stress reducers for me and my clients. My first rule is to never call a trip a vacation. Vacations can too easily be ruined by unexpected weather, travel delays, subpar accommodations, an illness, injury or other disruptions. Instead, I refer to any getaway as an adventure. By definition an adventure cannot be ruined because whatever happens simply becomes part of the adventure —“an exciting or remarkable experience.” (Merriam Webster).
My Go-to Bag
Protective (tinted) lip balm, eye drops, mints or throat lozenges and a small container of moisturizer (for face and hands).
Clothing
Pack with your destinations expected weather, but be prepared for aberrant conditions (colder, warmer, wetter). Next, be clear about the reason for your trip and pack for that purpose. A business meeting or conference or formal function will obviously require different clothing than casual touring or a sports oriented adventure. However, allow yourself the ability to dress down (comfortable/casual) or up (dressy) in either case. TIP ALERT: a good pair of black jeans can do rugged work and be dressed up with an elegant silk scarf or costume jewelry or nice jacket. Clothes can really take a beating in packed suitcases. Protect all garments by packing in sealable plastic to protect from creasing, snags, rips and tears as well as mold or mildew from damp conditions (this last one I learned the hard way by losing and entire suitcase of clothing after it was rained on then stored in warehouse. The clothes arrived covered in black, fuzzy mold and mildew)! Under no circumstances take your newest, favorite, most expensive outfit. Murphy’s law guarantees it will result in heartbreak.
Shoes
Keep shoes to a minimum as they take up space and require stuffing to maintain shape. Wear a comfortable pair of slip on sneakers or loafers to dash through airports and speed up security line checks (also, forgo wearing anything with metal that must be removed for security. It slows the process and increases the chance of loss). Try to keep footwear to a minimum of two or three pairs.
Toiletries
Do not rely on hotels to provide essentials. Some do, but what is provided and the quality varies. Take your own or plan to purchase at your destination. Essentials include toothbrush and paste, skincare and makeup, hair products (styling brush/comb, shampoo/conditioner, non-aerosol hair spray), reading and sun glasses, meds, and tech gear. A well stocked carry on To Go Bag can make a big difference in comfort and convenience. Mine includes makeup remover pads, small bar of soap and body oil (such as argan or almond), tissue packet, band aids, wipes, aspirin, pepto and laxatives (water and food differences can play havoc in either direction with the gut), pre-packed nuts or dried fruit and protein bar. Lastly, a nail file and nail clipper. I usually pack a small pair of scissors into a checked bag but the nail clipper works just as well for snipping off tags, threads etc. Finally, Always, Always leave room for treasures you discover and cannot pass up. Bringing home something special is part of the fun of travel.
Caveat
Know what is allowed I to your home country. Forbidden items may include, ivory, coral, bone, certain antiques, animal products and food stuffs. Check before buying. May your adventures be Purely Personal and enriching experiences. Bon Voyage!
