My packing style for vacations has changed a great deal after traveling across Europe and the United States for over 15 years. In order to be prepared for any situation, I packed everything I could fit into my luggage. Over the course of time, I realized that half of the items I packed were more on the "overpacking" side. I did not only struggle with my luggage, but it is also frustrating to have to pay for extra luggage you will not be using during your vacation.
I thought you might be interested in some tips and tricks I learned over the years while traveling. If you have a few tips or tricks, please share them. I'm eager to hear them.
1, To begin with, make sure that your passport is valid for 6 months before packing. If your passport expires too soon, some countries will not let you enter. Make sure you get your visa, if you need one, on time. Furthermore, when traveling with children under 18, you must get their written permission if they are traveling with only one parent with you. If you are concerned about any aspect of traveling, I suggest speaking to a travel agent.
2. It is extremely important to purchase travel insurance if you do not already have it. Many people believe that travel insurance is expensive, but in reality, these policies are very affordable and protect against theft, flight delays, medical costs, and many other factors.
3. In case your phone battery dies, print your boarding pass as a backup. I spoke from my own experience.
4. Bring dual voltage chargers for all of your devices if you're traveling to Europe. You don't want to worry about how to charge your devices. Europe uses 220v. verses the USA uses 110v.
5. Consider purchasing a power bank if you don't already have one. Make sure your devices are fully charged before traveling in Europe, and make sure you charge your power bank fully before boarding.
6. Liquids larger than 3.4 ounces should not be placed in carry-on bags. Shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel can be left at home, most hotels offer it complimentary.
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7. Dress in accordance with the destination's fashion culture. Dress appropriately at all times.
8. Dresses take up the least amount of space, so pack as many dresses as you wish.
9. I pack sneakers, casual shoes, and flip-flops since shoes take up a lot of space. Depending on the weather and season, boots.
10. You never know who will be sitting next to you on the plane. Bring a set of headsets.
11. Take some wet wipes along, wet wipes are not only helpful to clean your hands, but they are also great to freshen up, especially during a long flight.
12. Keep track of everything you will be taking in your luggage, this will help you avoid forgetting something.
13. The size of your luggage should match your travel needs. It is common for airlines to charge extra for larger suitcases.
14. If you roll and fold your clothes, you will not only save space, but the clothes will not wrinkle as much.
15. When packing my shoes, I always put socks and underwear in them, so they won't get squashed.
16. If you must pack anything valuable in your checked suitcase, keep it separate from your belongings so it won't get lost or stolen.
17. Make sure to also measure the space you will need if you are buying souvenirs for friends' families or for yourself.
18. In case your suitcase gets lost, as it did to me, a luggage tag can improve your chances of getting found since so many suitcases look the same
19. A travel wallet can keep your belongings safe and guard against theft
Keep in mind,
You should only pack what you will really use or need to avoid exceeding the weight limits, and calc