Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Your boarding ticket, passport, photo identification, medical insurance card, credit cards, debit cards and cash should be the first things you pack into your suitcase. Carry some smaller bills for tipping at hotels and eateries. Make two copies of important documents such as your photo identification card, passport and visa, and leave one copy behind. Include communication devices and resources such as your cell phone, laptop, address books and phone books listing useful, important phone numbers such as those for taxi cabs and emergencies. Do not forget the chargers for all your electronic appliances you are bringing. If you are traveling on a business trip, bring an alarm clock to ensure you will not miss your appointments and your briefcase to keep all your documents neatly organized. Include eye drops, tissues, lip balm, medications and medicine for colds, fevers and other common illnesses. Record special moments with a photo or video camera, and carry extra batteries just in case. For your carry-on, bring a book or magazine, bottled water and snacks. Ear plugs, an inflatable pillow and an eye mask might be essential if you are a light sleeper.
Bring travel-sized toiletries if you can and place them in plastic bags to prevent the toiletries from leaking. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouth wash. If you are traveling by plane, check your airline to see what size containers are acceptable. Containers that do not abide by airline standards will be discarded. Other toiletries you should pack include a brush, a comb, gel or mousse, razors, shaving cream, a hair dryer, shampoo, conditioner, soap or shower gel, moisturizing lotion, sunscreen, condoms, antibacterial hand sanitizer, sunglasses, deodorant, cologne, a nail clipper and Q-tips.
The number of each type of clothing to bring depends on the occasion and season. If you are vacationing in the Caribbean, you should bring more swim trunks and fewer socks. Conversely, a ski trip would require more socks and clothing that can be easily layered. Pack towels, T-shirts, dress shirts, sweat shirts, turtle necks, tank tops, dress pants, slacks, corduroys, sweat pants, dress shoes, flip flops, boots, jackets, a tuxedo, a blazer, a business suit, socks, boxers, briefs, pajamas, an extra jacket and a rain coat. Other types of apparel you might want to bring include mittens, scarves, long underwear and hats.
A camping trip would require a sleeping bag, pillow, food, water, matches, cooking pots and utensils, and a flashlight. If you are heading to a picnic, include utensils, napkins, plates, food and drinks in your basket or cooler. Because you might not have access to the Internet or other communication devices during your trip, pack recreational games such as bats, balls, racquets, frisbees and fishing equipment. Lawn chairs, a volleyball and kid toys might make a day at the beach more enjoyable.