What and how should you pack? | More Helpful Hints | Some Thoughts on Money
Need some help packing? Here are some tips that I have always found helpful when packing for a trip:
What and how should you pack?
The first rule of thumb is to not over-pack. Most people end up not using everything they packed and had to lug it around on their vacation for no reason. Unless you’ve always dreamed of working as a Sherpa, try to pack only those things that you really need. You should try to limit yourself to one piece of checked baggage, only piece of carry-on luggage, and a knapsack. Remember, if you forget something you need, you can always buy it over there.
When packing your carry-on, you should include the following:
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A change of clothing in case your checked baggage is delayed or lost
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Your travel documents such as tickets, passports, itineraries, etc. You should also keep a list of everything that is in your checked baggage, and if possible, photographs of the contents – especially of unusual or valuable items
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Debit and Credit Cards, Travelers Checks, Cash (you should also carry lists of your credit cards, travelerschecks,and contact number for the issuing companies, passport, identification)
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Emergency contact numbers (relatives, friends, doctors)
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Any item of particular value which you don’t want to check
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Medications
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Camera, batteries, and
Money for miscellaneous expenses like buses or porters
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Also, remember that the air inside the plane is usually very dry, so eye drops, lip balm, and moisturizers can come in handy
Other items to consider packing in your either your checked or carry-on luggage:
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A security pouch/money belt to protect your cash, credit cards, etc.
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A compact umbrella and rain poncho in case of inclement weather
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Voltage transformer and plug kit if you are bringing electrical items
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Washrag/facecloth. European hotels usually do not supply these, though they do provide bath towels
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A book or 2 to read
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Tissues and moist toweletts are always handy!
More Helpful Hints (Back to Top)
Shampoo, Suntan lotion, and other Goop...
The best way to keep this stuff in their bottles and off your clothes and other items is to be sure that their containers are tightly closed. For added protection, put them into a freezer bag that has a locking seal. Pack small bottles. There’s no need to lug around a 3 month supply for a 10 day trip! If you run out, you can always buy more on the trip.
Do you need to bring your medication?
You should always carry your medication with you in your carry-on bags, since those are less likely to be lost. Also, you should write down the generic names of your medication because in some places, brand names differ, or the brand name may not be available. So that you can help avoid security problems, you should keep your medicine in its original container, and if you are transporting a large quantity or a questionable drug, bring a letter from your doctor saying that you are legally allowed to have the drugs. When traveling abroad, be aware that some drugs are illegal (even though they may be legal prescription drugs in the US), so be sure to check into that before you depart.
Plan on capturing some memories on film?
First of all, remember that a 36 picture roll of film takes up the same amount of space as a 12 picture roll! You should carry all of your film in your checked bags to avoid the X-ray machines used for carry-on luggage. Some stores carry special cases that protect film, so if you are wary about losing your film, check into that option. Also, when going through security. you can ask for a manual inspection of your carry-on to avoid x-ray inspection and potential damage. The best way to avoid these problems, although it might end up costing you a little more, is to buy your film after you have arrived and get it developed before you leave. This way you ensures that none of your film will be damaged, and maybe retake a few of those shots that didn’t come out as well as you had hoped.
Don’t bring too many valuable items...
The safest place for your valuables is at home, but sometimes you have to bring some of them along. Try to avoid putting valuable in checked baggage. They are safer in your carry-on bags since you can keep track of them. Use the locks on your luggage, if you have them, but they are generally flimsy, and will only "keep the honest people honest." It’s better to use a stronger combination lock to secure the zippers of the baggage you check. And be sure to keep the combination number in a safe place – not with the baggage.
Some thoughts on Money (Back to Top)
ATM/Debit Cards - You can use your ATM/Debit card to get cash and avoid the often higher transaction costs of travelers checks. If you are worried about security, open a travel account at your bank and deposit only the amount of money you plan to spend. That way you can limit your risk in the event you lose your card.
Credit cards with PINS are also an easy way to travel in Europe. They are accepted at shops in cities and tourist centers but are not as accepted by merchants in out of the way villages. They can be used in money machines which are common in villages. Carry a card that has no outstanding balance and a low limit. This minimizes loss if it is lost or stolen. Plan to pay the card in full when you get home. Your credit card company usually charges a much higher interest rate on cash transactions and payments are applied to the lowest interest charges first.
Travelers Checks - If you carry travelers checks, get at least $100.00 denominations. European banks charge a transaction fee for each check - not the total amount. They must be changed at a bank and so are subject to bankers hours which can be inconvenient at times. Leave home with starter money in the currency of the country you are traveling to. $50.00 or $100.00 is usually enough. You can get it from your bank. Branch offices may need to request it from the main bank so it can take a couple of days. There is also currency exchange at the airport but the exchange rate is the least favorable. You may also find sites on the Internet.
