A foolproof checklist: 10 things you need to carry for a carefree holiday
An expert checklist of what to carry when you’re packing for a glitch-free holiday.
“Bag packing is an art,” said Jerome K. Jerome in his famous classic, Three Men in a Boat. We cannot agree with him more.
Whether you travel frequently or not, it’s always feels nice to do it right. A good vacation requires a lot of planning and a foolproof ‘things to take’ list that you can always fall back on the last minute.
So we bring you an expert checklist of what to carry when you’re packing, by Kapil Goswamy, the founder of BigBreaks.com.
Here’s to hoping that you have a glitch-free holiday.
1. All important documents
Put all your important documents, ticket, passport visa health insurance (for international travel) ID, credit cards, emergency contact and addresses in a travel document organiser. Carry it on your person. This is to ensure everything is in one place and you don’t have to open bags and purses to fish out these documents.
2. Comfortable clothes
When you step out of the house, the first thing you look for is comfort. Make sure you carry a few comfy clothes that you can relax in. Place comfort over fashion. The same goes for footwear.
3. Some cash
Even if you have a number of credit cards, and there are ATMs everywhere, don’t forget to carry cash and some small change as well. Believe me it’s your security blanket in the toughest of situations.
4. Maps and guides
If you are going to a place for the first time, carry the address and phone numbers of the place you plan to stay in, or the hotel where you are booked. Maps and guides are also must-haves.
5. First aid kit
A first aid kit, especially if you are travelling with kids is a must; also some regular medicines for aches and pain, fever, stomach upset and vomiting.
6. A book or two
Nothing makes a better travel companion than a good book. Pack one or two into the daypack or backpack you will be carrying around. An e- book is even better. Make sure the day pack is light and easy to carry.
7. Essential gadgets
Cell phone, camera, laptop/ iPad, chargers and cable, extension cords and adaptors are all must-items when you are travelling these days. Make sure they all go into your travel bag before you leave home.
8. Utility items
Carry utility items, which include, umbrella, sunglasses, torch, mosquito coil and repellant, match box, Swiss knife, sunscreen lotions, sewing kit, hand sanitizer, wet wipes and cold cream if you are going to a winter destination. An alarm clock, in case you don’t use your cell phone for the purpose, is also essential.
9. Board games
Carry a pack of cards and any other board game that you and your friends enjoy playing. It’s a good way to unwind and spend time on vacation, especially if the weather forces you to stay indoors.
10. Toiletry bag
Keep your toiletry bag light. Carry small packs of toothpaste, face wash, mouthwash, shampoo, conditioner and deodorant. Don’t forget to take your tooth brush, hairbrush and personal and feminine hygiene items.
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