Having just recently returned from a much needed holiday to the Southern States, I thought it would be a great idea to pass along some of my favorite travel tips to help keep you organized while travelling and ensure you have everything you need to have a great time!
1. Pack a full change of weather specific clothes in your carry-on. So, for instance, if you’re traveling from Canada to California, make sure you pack a pair of flip flops, shorts, a tank top and bathing suit in your carry-on. If your luggage gets lost or delayed, you’re still all set for warm weather and lounging around the pool (what better way to wait out delayed luggage?)>
2. If you’re travelling with someone else, pack a few of your items in their suitcase and vice versa. Again, on the off chance that one of your pieces of luggage gets lost, you’ll each have items in both suitcases.
3. A week before you leave, start keeping a list of things you’ll need and write down items as you think of them (sunscreen, camera battery charger, ipod). It’s harder to remember what to pack when it gets closer to the time that you leave because you’re thinking about a thousand other things. And, additionally, once you’ve made the list, keep it in your files for next time. I had a list for camping items that I kept for years and used that every time I went out.
4. Photocopy your drivers license, passport, credit cards and bank cards. Then let a relative or someone staying behind know where the documents could be retrieved should you require a copy of them while you’re away
5. Empty all unnecessary items from your wallet. This could include gift cards, business cards, membership cards, receipts, extra credit cards, etc. In case your wallet gets lost or stolen, you’ll only have a few items to worry about. When travelling you should consider taking on the basics which would be a drivers license, credit card, bank card, health care card(s) and your passport.
6. When packing clothes, consider whole outfits, not just individual pieces. This also includes underwear (a black bra under your white shirt may not be the best look – unless that’s what you go for), belts, shoes and accessories. Think each outfit through and be realistic about what you’re actually going to wear.
7. Take extra plastic and/or cloth bags and ziplocs. Extra bags are great for keep dirty laundry separate and ziplocs work if you’re taking any items that may leak or stain. They’re also great for packing up snacks on the go.
8. Once you’re packed, take a couple of quick pics of your suitcase. Again, in case anything gets lost or stolen, you’ll have a bit of a visual record of everything so you can remember what you had.
9. Put your important travel documents (hotel info, airline tickets, travel vouchers) in your carry-on and make sure you put them back in the same place EVERY SINGLE TIME. Although I find I’m constantly checking to make sure I have my passport with me, there is only one side pouch in my carry on that I have to look in since I always keep it there. It keeps you from freaking out or having to dig through your bag or purse while people wait impatiently behind you.
10. Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need. Trust me when I say that you’re far better off being early and bored than late and stressed. Unexpected things like accidents or long line ups at security can’t always be avoided, so it’s best to be early, grab a coffee and magazine and relax than start your vacation off annoyed, frustrated and panicked.
So enjoy the travel season – get out, have fun, enjoy your adventures!
Got any travel tips of your own? Please post them below!
