Traveling abroad can be an exciting and hectic experience in equal measure. It’s exciting because you’re set to begin a new phase of life, and you can’t wait to get on that plane. But it’s also hectic, especially when you’re confronted with the small matter of what you should bring along.
If packing for a trip abroad isn’t part of your holiday experience, then this exercise might be the bane of your existence. And it gets worse if you’re taking your family with you.
Some people dread overseas packing so much that they wait until the very last minute. Such instances often lead to chaos, forgotten items, and over-packed bags. Whichever category you fall into, you’ll have to think about what to pack, and the sooner, the better.
Packing for a trip abroad is easier said than done. What you pack will determine whether your travel will be fun and efficient an experience as possible.
Before you dust off your suitcase and shift your mind into a packing frenzy, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here you’ll find some valuable tips that will give you a glimpse of what you need to pack, depending on where you’re destined to.
Backpack or Suitcase
While this will boil down to your personal preference, you need to consider your length of stay or whether you’ll be moving around a lot. If you intend to stay in one place, then one large suitcase will suffice. But if exploring is on your to-do list, a large backpack can be a viable option.
Also, if your family is tagging along, you’ll probably have a handful of luggage to carry. In this case, you can ship your luggage beforehand using one of the many shipping companies. After all, there are thousands of jobs posted on Shiply, and you can add to that number.
Clothing
With clothing, you should always strive to keep it light. Avoid the temptation of over-packing, but only bring along what you really need. When packing your clothes, segregate them according to their different purposes.
Next, pack them in your chosen bag to see how much space they occupy. Do not carry your entire wardrobe, but then you end up not wearing much of these clothes.
Pay Attention to the Essentials
If you’re going beyond the border, you’re expected to carry important documents and papers. First things first, your visa, passport, and plane ticket should be readily available. Other essentials like an address list, accommodation details, and phone numbers will also be part of your luggage.
Medication
Do not forget to pack any medication you rely on, and if you need a prescription, you should ascertain whether it’s available at your destination. For universally available medicines, you’re better off stocking up abroad, provided it’s much cheaper.
Besides, ensure you carry the prescription letter from your doctor with you because you might be asked to prove they are prescribed medication. Some countries have outlawed in-bound medication safe for proof of a prescription.
You don’t have to break a sweat when the opportunity to travel abroad arises. With a detailed travel packing checklist, you’re ready to hit the road and have a great time. The key to a happy trip is bringing along the right luggage.