Packing
Packing can be a challenge, whether you travel often or only occasionally. Here are a few things to consider:
- How much weight or bulk are you willing to carry?
- What weather is likely, and how changeable might it be?
- Could your itinerary change during the trip, requiring different types of clothing?
- Might you unexpectedly need something rugged, smart, or elegant?
- Could you unexpectedly need weather gear?
Here is a comprehensive list to help you get started. Use what is helpful and disregard the rest.
| CLOTHS | ||
|---|---|---|
| ITEM | HOW MANY | WHICH ONES |
| Knickers | ||
| Bras | ||
| Undershirt | ||
| Sox | ||
| Casual Tops | ||
| Dress Tops | ||
| Casual Pants | ||
| Dress Pants | ||
| Dresses | ||
| Outerwear | ||
| Swin Suits | ||
| Workout Gear | ||
| Casual Shoes | ||
| Dress Shoes | ||
| Walking shoes | ||
| Sandles | ||
| Beach Shoes |
| TOILETREES | ||
|---|---|---|
| ITEM | HOW MANY | WHICH ONES |
| Shampoo | ||
| Conditioner | ||
| Hair Brush/comb | ||
| Hair Clips | ||
| Hair Drier/Straightener | ||
| Body Wash | ||
| Body Lotion | ||
| Face Wash | ||
| Moisturiser | ||
| Toothbrush | ||
| Tooth Paste | ||
| Floss | ||
| Dental Support | ||
| Make Up | ||
| Shaving Gear |
| OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS | ||
|---|---|---|
| ITEM | HOW MANY | WHICH ONES |
| Glasses | ||
| Sun Glasses | ||
| Purse | ||
| Bum Bag | ||
| Phone | ||
| Charger | ||
| Wallet | ||
| Batteries | ||
| Medication | ||
| Foot Support | ||
| Power Adaptors | ||
| Umbrella |
| IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS | ||
|---|---|---|
| ITEMS | HOW MANY | WHICH ONES |
| Passport | ||
| Visas | ||
| Identification | ||
| Itinerary | ||
| Travel Insurance | ||
| Reservations | ||
| Emergency Contacts | ||
| International Drivers Liscence | ||
Quick Tips
CHANGEABLE WEATHER - BE PREPARED: Prepare for the unexpected heat, snow, rain etc. For example the rockies are famous for unseasonable weather, who would think? And in New Mexico locals say if you don't like the weather just cross the road. These days unexpected weather is everywhere - so be prepared.
PACK LIGHT: You really can get away with less than you think. Save your back and your patience. Don't lug extra cloths, shoes or miscellaneous items you may not need. We have discovered minimalist packing and have never looked back.
ROLLING CLOTHS: My new discovery is rolling all cloths. Bags for smalls like knickers, sox, toiletries, etc and rolling all the large items.
PACKING EASE: We just found a fabulous suitcase which has made all the difference. It lays out flat with one side having covers over it. I put bags of (smalls, toiletries and accessories) on one side then zipped up the covers. On the other side I rolled my cloths. Tops on the top of the suitcase dresses under the tops and pants rolled at the bottom. I lived out of the suitcase for a month and easily found everything I wanted. There was no frustration or hassle just a great holiday in Canada.