WRITTEN BY   —

How to Pack for Your Next Trip

Going on vacation is an exciting event to look forward to. You’ve planned for weeks, gotten the necessary time off work, and are looking forward to an awesome time with your family or friends. However, there is one final step before you’re off and ready for relaxation, and that’s your packing plan.

Getting ready for vacation can be a stressful endeavor. You need to make sure everything is organized for your trip and secure back at home. Especially if you’re traveling with kids, you’re responsible for getting them ready as well as yourself. Going away from home means you won’t have all of the normal comforts you’re used to at your disposal. You need to bring the necessities without over-packing and bringing too much. Overall, there’s just a lot of nuance to getting everything ready for the perfect vacation. Lucky for you, you don’t have to do it alone. There are plenty of packing lists and guides you can follow to make sure everything is set for your trip. Follow this guide, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation once you get where you’re going.

Know your destinations.

All vacations are not created equal. There are so many different kinds of trips you can go on, and each one will determine what exactly you need to pack. The first step in getting your stuff together is simply knowing where you’re going. A camping trip through the South Carolina border is going to require different guide reproduction and specifications than a stay in a five-star hotel on the beach. Where you’re going determines what you’ll need when you get there.

For example, if you’re sightseeing at the Georgia Guidestones, you’ll need to bring your books on conspiracy theorists, the age of reason, and ancient languages. Know about the commandments you’re visiting and get ready for a wild ride. Sightseeing trips usually require simple comfortable clothing and not a lot of extra survival equipment, but if you’re camping in the woods, you’ll need things like a compass, tent, and means to cook your own food. Naturally, a trip to the beach is going to require bathing suits and a much different wardrobe than a skiing trip. Consider what your plans are on your vacation, and pack accordingly.

Plan your outfits.

One area where you can end up over-packing is with your clothing. If you’re going on a trip for five days, you don’t need to pack ten different outfits. Plan out what you plan to wear, so you can take all the guesswork out of it. If you’re celebrating, pack one nice outfit. If you’re going to the beach a lot, plan your swimsuit and coverup ideas. If you’re going on a romantic getaway, maybe focus on what bikini undies and lingerie you’re bringing rather than overpacking with other items. It’s a perpetual balance to figure out what you need and what you intend to wear, but if you put your mind to it, you can avoid packing too much.

Know the restrictions.

Depending on where you’re going, there may be rules different from your hometown. Know the restrictions and specifications of where you’re going. For example, cannabis may be legal where you live, but in another state, the smell of weed could get you into trouble. Find ways to cover the weed smell with odor eliminator spray if you’re just passing through. Veil Weed Odor Eliminator can do the trick if you’re in a pinch. Otherwise, it may be better to follow fair laws and not bring questionable substances across the border into a state that doesn’t allow anything close to the smell of weed smoke.

Provide entertainment.

When you’re packing for a trip, you usually pack one or two bags. One bag is full of practical items like your clothes, toiletries, and other needs for when you get where you’re going. You’ll also pack a bag of things you’ll need on the journey. These are your books, toys, entertainment, snacks, etc. Have that extra bag packed, so you and your kids stay entertained in the car or on the plane. It will make things so much easier for everyone involved as you embark on your journey.

Bring the right bag.

Packing for a vacation requires the right luggage. You and your bags truly should make a perfect pair. Know what will be easiest to travel with. If you have to run through airports, you may want a bag with wheels that will come along with you easily. If you’re packing up your car, any capsule or luggage may do the trick. Check for new arrivals and options to help you with your personal rights as you pack that perfect bag.

Remember your health.

Traveling away from home is fun, but at the end of the day, you need to be sure that you’re staying safe. Take care of your health, even away from home. Pack a small first-aid kit with medications, band aids, and other products that can help in case of emergency. The last thing you want is to be stuck without a medication you need or to suffer a small injury but not be able to correct it. It can also be good to do your research to find local doctors and emergency care wherever you’re going. Of course, the hope is that you wouldn’t need any medical assistance while you’re gone, but it is always better safe than sorry.

Organize your documents.

When you travel, especially by plane, you need to bring your important documents and identifications with you. Take the time to organize your documents as a part of your packing plan. Bring everyone’s identification, health insurance cards, and your reservation documents. Usually it can be helpful to have a folder specifically for your trip, so you stay organized and prepared for anything that might happen.

Secure your home.

The last thing you need to do before you’re ready to go is secure your home. Perhaps ask a neighbor to come by every day just to pick up your mail and water the plants. Make sure alarm systems are on and doors are locked. This will help you enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home.

Isla Leighton is the Founder & Editor behind Rock Salt Plum, a digital community curated to deliver an accessible yet sophisticated lifestyle standard. The inspiration behind the brand’s creative drive and style influence is mirrored in Isla’s day-to-day experiences and passion for beautiful design, personal growth, and elegant lifestyle content.

Thank you for contacting Rock Salt Plum!

We will be in touch soon! Use the logo on the pop-up for the contact form as well.