Packing for a long (or unending) trip isn’t easy. Before I left for Spain, I remember sitting on the floor staring woefully at my backpack, wondering how I was going to fit everything that I needed into one carry-on item. I ferociously googled all the tips and tricks to traveling light, and still failed to close my bag without using my full body weight to threaten the longevity of the zipper.
Now, I’m surrounded by people who are living out of their suitcases. I could probably name every item in their wardrobe, and even pinpoint the last time they did their laundry. There’s no better resource for anyone caught in the throes of packing than those of us who have become the masters of trial and error!
Ask a Traveler – What Do I Pack?
1. Never leave home without an extra battery
Okay, I’ll admit it. My mom actually packed this one for me. I had no idea how valuable having an extra charge would be until my phone was on 3% and I was wandering around lost in the mountains. Whether you’re running out of juice on an airplane or you can’t live without music, there’s no reason to reject a full battery.
2. Keep your feet happy
How many pairs of shoes did you pack? (Flip flops don’t count.) If the answer is more than 2, that’s too many pairs of shoes. Could you comfortably walk 15 miles in both pairs of shoes? If not, exchange those stilettos for a pair of hiking boots and move on.
3. One outfit for every occasion
Unless you’re planning on going to a wide variety of important cultural events, this should add up to around 5 outfits. One pair of shorts, one swimsuit, one sweatshirt… the list goes on. Once you’ve finished selecting your wardrobe, look through it again and choose as least one item to leave behind. I promise.
4. Plan for pain
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if you’re traveling you’re probably going to get sick. Ibuprofen, antibiotic ointment, antihistamines, and antidiarrheal/cold medicines should be at the top of your list. It can be difficult to find what you need when you’re feverish in a foreign country, so having these essentials at hand can ease your recovery. For preventative measures, don’t forget to grab a probiotic and vitamin!
5. Climate change is real
If you’re not used to the sun, wind, cold or sand, you won’t be able to survive without a few essentials to keep your skin hydrated. Lip balm, vaseline, your favorite lotion and some SPF 50 will help counteract the effects of a new climate. Sunglasses, a baseball hat, durable water bottle and multi-purpose, lightweight blanket will ensure that you can fend off whatever mother nature throws your way.
6. It’s the little things
Fingernail clippers, earplugs, tweezers and q-tips are my favorite multipurpose items. I used my tweezers to pull sea urchin out of my foot the other day.
7. Never travel without a towel
Regular towels take forever to dry and demand a lot of space in your bag. Invest in a travel towel.
8. Lock it up
There are a variety of different locks that you can use to keep your things safe. A padlock will be perfect for hostels, but it can also help to have a miniature lock for the zippers on your bag. I like to believe that people are inherently good, but… sometimes they’re bad.
9. There’s no place like home
When your home is on your back, it’s important to cultivate your own space – no matter where you are! I carry lavender candles and a few keepsakes (notes, pages I’ve torn from books etc.) to remind me of the people and places that make me feel whole.
This is by no means a comprehensive list, but you won’t catch me without any of these travel essentials. Questions? Ask away! I’m surrounded by travelers from every country who love to share what they’ve learned! Sometimes I know what I’m talking about, too.
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