Spring is almost upon us, and if you’re like millions of other Americans, you plan to travel somewhere nice, sunny, and memorable. While packing for a trip might not be as hectic and nerve-racking as boxing up everything for a move, they share a critical trait: you have to ensure that you have all the necessities.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a trip to Paris or an overnight trip just a few hours away; forgetting the essentials is a surefire way to derail the journey. Or, at the very least, require an unscheduled midnight trip to a department store.
If you’re headed for a vacation this spring, before you pack that electric toothbrush, review this list to help make sure you don’t forget anything.
The Basics
Okay, you probably know the following, but we’d be neglectful if we didn’t include them in our list of things that have to make it into the family’s compression packing cubes or suitcases.
• As mentioned above, your toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss should always be first on your list, as well as any other oral hygiene supplies that you normally use
• Razor/shaving cream
• Deodorant
• Aftershave/cologne/perfume
• Qtips
• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Unless you don’t mind the ones that hotels and motels offer
• Feminine care products
• Makeup
• Phone charger (don’t forget the appropriate adaptor if you’re traveling out of the country)
• Cash, travel checks, debit cards, and credit cards, as appropriate.
• Copies of important documentation (eg passports, visas, and DNRs)
• Lastly, if you’re going on a road trip with younger children, it’s a really smart idea to take a portable DVD player to help keep them entertained
Spring Break
If you’re making an ocean escape for some beach fun this spring break, you’ll want to make sure you use the following as an outline:
• 5–6 pairs of underwear
• 5–6 pairs of socks
• 2 bras
• A mix of at least 6 t-shirts, dress shirts, and/or tank tops
• Your preference of 3–5 skirts, shorts, or loose pants
• A light sweater (the beach can get cool at night)
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Swimsuit
• Beach towel
It’s Not Warm Everywhere
Sure, spring means things are warming up in most places, but that’s just it; it’s most places. Do your due diligence before you head off to that cabin rental and check the weather for the timeframe you’re planning your visit. If it’s going to be on the cooler side, consider packing the following:
Ladies
• pack jeans or pants (at least 2)
• 1 dress
• 1 blouse or button down
• 2 layering tanks
• 2 tees and tops
• 2 sweaters
• 1 Outerwear
Gentlemen
• 3 pants/jeans
• 1 dress shirt (for a dining-out night)
• 2 loose-fitting button-down shirts
• 3-4 t-shirts
• 1 sweater
• 1 hoodie
Miscellaneous
Keeping in mind where you’re going and how you’re traveling (plane, train, or automobile), you may want to pack these items:
• A VPN (public WiFi) is dangerous and you should protect yourself with one of the great VPN services available today
• Neck pillow
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel Insurance
• Noise-canceling headphones (or you can go to the next level with a sleep mask with Bluetooth)
• A first-aid kit with essential medication and bandages
• Insect repellent is especially important if you’re traveling to a tropical destination or planning to do outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and exploring your destination
• Water bottle with a built-in filter
• Camera
As you set off on your adventure, double-checking your list can save you from unneeded headaches. Remember that it’s all about balance: pack what you need but keep it light enough to travel comfortably. Most importantly, have fun and make unforgettable memories, because that’s what travel is really about.