Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, or embarking on your first holiday, everyone can use some packing tips. Many people find that no matter what, or how much they pack, they always seem to pack the wrong thing. Forgetting essentials, such as a toothbrush, is easily done when you’re too caught up in preparing for every possible weather scenario. It’s important to stick to the basics, and pack light, no matter what type of vacation you’re planning. Although foreign destinations may require important details such as a passport or immunizations, many holidays require the same necessities, no matter what season you may be traveling in. Here are four things you should never forget to pack.
1) Prescriptions and basic medicines: you may remember to pack your prescription medication, but checking to be sure you have enough to last your trip may escape you. Be sure you have plenty, and a back up kept in a separate container, just in case you lose or misplace one of them. Because prescriptions are impossible to fill abroad, your health will rely on your ability to pack them correctly. This counts for everyone, whether you have prescriptions or not. Bring along the cold and flu, headache, stomachache, and any other medicines you’re familiar with. This will help you avoid the hassle of hunting down a pharmacy and translating packaging. If you’re planning on a long flight, bringing along some sleep aids is never a bad idea.
2) Sensible shoes: whether it’s a romantic cruise, or an adventure vacation in the mountains, bringing at least two pairs of shoes is always essential. Those planning on sight seeing in particular will appreciate a back up pair of shoes, especially if poor weather leaves the first pair soaked and unusable. You never want to miss out on holiday experiences because you are missing a decent pair of shoes. “Sensible shoes” also means those that are broken in, don’t make the mistake of purchasing a new pair for your trip, only to have it ruined at the end of day one by painful blisters.
3) Sunblock: although this is commonly packed for island getaways, you may forget to pack it when you’re headed for colder climates. Sunblock is just as important in the summer as it is the winter. Bring along a strong SPF for lounging on the beach, and a lighter one that can be worn on a daily basis. For women: make sure the daily sunblock is a non greasy formula that wears well under make up, so you can avoid unwanted oily skin in your once-in-a-lifetime photos.
4) Local currency: if your holiday destination is overseas, odds are you’ll need to convert your currency. Many people make the mistake of waiting until they’ve arrived to convert money, which is a bad idea for many reasons. One: you will be over-charged by poor conversion rates in airports and other convenient locations. And two: you’ll likely need local currency long before you find a conversion counter. Don’t be caught off guard by horrible conversion rates through your debit card, instead, convert a bit of spending money before you leave, so you don’t overpay for as little as a bottle of water in the airport.
This post was written by Holly Adams from CouponCroc.co.uk – check them out for Thomson discount codes before you travel.
