PACKING TIPS FOR SMART TRAVELERS

You’ve got your tickets, you’ve researched your destination and now it’s time to pack. What you bring and what you don’t will definitely impact the enjoyment of your vacation. Be smart, be prepared and have fun!

The golden rule of traveling is to take half the clothes you were planning and twice the amount of money. (Aric S. Queen)
Carry on is best, but if that doesn’t work for you, decorate your suitcase with colorful duct tap. Make sure that you mark (with a Sharpie) the inside of your suitcase with your contact information. Also, include your travel itinerary inside the bag- that way you are covered if your tags fall off.
Photograph the outside of your suitcase and the inside contents. You will have a record if it is lost
Always bring a scented scarf or pashmina on the plane. It can serve as an accessory, odor shield, blanket or head scarf.
Pack a sleep mask and ear plugs.
Think threes: wear three layers (you can add or subtract as the temperature changes) and always plan to wear each garment three times.
Roll your clothes instead of folding- you can fit in more.
Carry plastic bags in all sizes- use to store dirty clothes, bag electronics, space savers etc.
Use packing cubes- helps to keep organized
Carry an emergency kit stocked with band-aids, antihistamines, pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medicine, tape, sewing kit, alcohol wipes & anti-bacterial ointment.
Bring a multi-socket extension cord so that you can charge your electronics. Make sure you have the right adapter for foreign countries.
Make photocopies of your passport and credit cards before leaving home and bring a copy with you.
Bring your own snacks. You can skip airport food, save money and keep hunger at bay in case your flight is delayed.
Use a back-pack as your carry-on.
Use the hotel hair dryer rather than haul yours.
Thieves Oil (available on Amazon) is great to have on hand. It deodorizes and kills bacteria & mold on you and surfaces.
Have a plane “uniform” (layers) and wear it on all flights. Wear your heaviest clothes.
Base your wardrobe around black- it is definitely the easiest to mix and match & always bring a pair of jeans.
Bring a good looking jacket or blazer- you never know when you are going to be invited to a fancy restaurant.
Bring two pairs of shoes: one an all around hiking/city shoe (hip sneaker) and a “Mary Jane” type shoe that looks good with both pants and skirts (avoid white tennis shoes).