If you’re flying, you may need to plan both your carry-on and checked luggage accordingly. Consider keeping valuables and anything you’ll need during travel in your carry-on so its near. If you are traveling on the ground bring along snacks or something to make the time go by faster like audiobooks or your favorite music.
If there’s a 90% chance of rain daily, make sure to bring a rain jacket or umbrella.
If you really want to go snorkeling, bringing your gear along might be a good idea. If you love to try new fancy restaurants, making sure you have enough formal outfits can make sure you spend less time worrying about what to wear and more about where to eat next! This will also help you eliminate unnecessary items you likely will not use. [3] X Research source
Don’t forget to double-check your list before leaving!
Make versatile choices. [4] X Expert Source Angela RiceTravel Specialist Expert Interview. 18 September 2020. Choose clothing items that are multi-purpose and can be plugged into a number of outfits. This helps keep your bag light and also helps simplify the packing process. [5] X Research source Shoes can fill up a bag quickly. Rather than lugging five pairs of shoes, choose a couple comfortable ones that match all of your clothes.
Keep your medicine handy. This is especially true if you have prescriptions that you might need. Also, plan ahead for any stomach or pain medication you may need while flying and have these handy. If you have a laptop, tablet computer or any other valuable electronic, keep these near for personal use and protection.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This not only helps reduce wrinkles but you’ll be able to fit more. [6] X Research source Put things in your shoes. Since shoes already take up a lot of room, by putting socks, underwear, or jewelry inside your shoe, you make the most of your space. Utilize unexpected spaces in your bag. Luggage often has pockets or zippers where you can stow away small items without taking up space from the main compartment. [7] X Research source
Fake jewelry. Although you should avoid looking too flashy on vacation, if you want pieces to match your outfit, it is a good idea to take some of your cheap or fake jewelry.
If you have a special shampoo or conditioner you use, your destination likely has stores that sell it! You can buy it there and have one less thing in your bag.
Ditch the guidebooks. These take up room and can also be outdated. If your road map is from even 9 months ago, there is a good chance things have changed. Download up to date guidebooks on your devices or simply get one at your destination. [11] X Research source
Keep it basic. Leave the electric toothbrush at home and most hotels you stay at will have a hair dryer.
If you are traveling internationally, make sure to let your bank and credit card company know so that there are no disruptions in your service.
For example, you can’t bring a filled water bottle through security but can bring your own empty bottle to fill once you’re through.