Pack one shirt for each day of vacation, and make sure you take a pair of pants or a skirt to match each shirt. Prepare for a range of temperatures with a mix of T-shirts and long sleeves or at least one cardigan because sometimes indoor temperatures differ drastically from those outside. Pack at least one sweater or sweatshirt and one rainproof jacket or umbrella.
Pack at least one dressy shirt and pair of pants, skirt or dress. You never know where the night will lead while on vacation. You might need the outfit for a nice dinner or to attend an event.
Take along a pair of underwear and socks for each day of your vacation, along with an extra pair or two of each just in case.
Take along a bathing suit or two, more if desired. Even if traveling in winter or someplace other than the beach, take at least one bathing suit because many hotels have indoor swimming pools and whirlpools.
Pack any jewelry you may want on the road, but leave any truly expensive items behind to protect them. Remember your watch, rings and any earrings you want to wear on your travels.
Pack a pair of sneakers, a pair of flip-flops, everyday casual shoes or boots, and a pair of nice shoes or heels. Even in winter, a pair of flip-flops will come in handy if you go swimming in a hotel's indoor pool. The number of recommended shoes may seem excessive, but you will be ready for every occasion.
Pack your driver's license, along with your passport, if needed. Also make sure you take your debit card and credit card for emergencies.
Pack your cell phone charger so you can stay in touch while on the road. Also, make sure your cell phone will work in your intended destination beforehand. If desired, take your laptop and don't forget the charger for that, too. If you have one, take an mp3 player.
Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, along with soap, face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream and a razor. Bring along a spare pair of contact lenses, along with solution, and a spare pair of glasses, if possible. For those traveling by air, remember that the federal Transportation Security Administration limits which liquids you can take onboard. As of 2010, the agency permits each passenger one quart-size, clear plastic bag in which you can place your toiletries. You can put larger bottles of liquids in checked luggage.
Print out directions and your itinerary if needed, along with contact information for where you will stay in case you get lost en route. Take along any maps you need, along with a pen or pencil and writing pad.
Pack your medicines, along with enough vitamins to last the duration of your trip, if applicable. Take along aspirin or another pain reliever, and Dramamine for any boat trips you may take.
If traveling by car, take a plastic bag to collect trash, along with paper towels to wipe up any spills.
