Traveling Tips from an Experienced Packer
What to Take Depends on Type of Trip
The Signal - Business Section, July, 2005
What is in your suitcase? It’s already the middle of summer and the busy travel season is well underway. With so many people getting ready to pack their bags for a well-deserved vacation, taking everything you need often can be a challenge.
Too much or not enough, carry-on or baggage check, so many questions for the packing traveler. Facing the empty suitcase, we all need a little help sometimes. So here’s a rundown of the important things to remember to pack when headed out of town.
First and foremost, take your ID, airline tickets, e-confirmation and itinerary. For international travel, take the passport as well. Without these items, you’re sure to stay grounded and your packing efforts are wasted.
For the carry-on bag or purse, be sure to have reading material handy. Also, plan ahead with the cash and Traveler’s Checks you take. Carry one dollar bills for tipping, and don’t leave home without the cards – debit, ATM or credit. Reading material is a must for waiting delays and during flight. For the technology items like your cell phone, IPod or PDA, it’s critical to have the charger along so you stay fully loaded and connected. Same goes for laptops and digital cameras, which also require film or digital chips.
Depending on where you’re going, the type of trip it is – business or leisure, whether the kids are coming along and the size of your suitcase, your options may vary. But, in general, you’ll most likely need:
Toothbrush and other personal toiletries
Medications
Undergarments, pajamas, swim suit
Casual clothes and business attire. It’s always good to have a sport coat for evening or any unexpected events.
Shoes, preferably comfortable ones if you plan to do significant walking.
Overcoat for cooler climates
Workout clothes and shoes. Take advantage of that state-of-the-art fitness center in your hotel, or be prepared to go for a brisk walk through the park.
Accessories like a watch, jewelry, belts, neckties
For specific travel plans, these tips at a glance should be useful:
- Business trips – laptop, cell phone and charger, PDA, presentation materials, client contact info.
- Sunny destinations – swim suit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, shorts, sandals, camera, charger and digital chips or film.
- Cold or wet destinations – overcoat, comfortable boots, gloves, scarf, hat, umbrella, Chapstick.
- Traveling with kids – snacks, activities (games, puzzles, books, CDs, portable DVD player, DVDs), things to keep kids’ attention.
Travel is exciting and can be so enjoyable if you bring the correct items along. Just like it is with planning your trip, the details make the difference between a good and a fantastic travel experience.
So, what is in your suitcase? Use this checklist next time you get ready to leave town and you’re on the way to one amazing trip.
Commentary provided by Eric Maryanov, president and founder of All-Travel.com, the Los Angeles-based travel management company with an office in Valencia. He can be reached at 661.775.7511..
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