There is no shortage of articles offering tips on what to pack when traveling – whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. In fact, an online search of the words “packing list” will result in an overwhelming number of suggestions and checklists. Some of the packing lists are too generic to be helpful. Some are too specific. Finding one that’s just right is a little more challenging than one might imagine. But, after years of helping my clients pack for all kinds of trips, they persuaded me to share my very own checklist of Things to Pack for a Vacation which I’m happy to do. Here are a few out-of-the-ordinary items that I’ve packed for clients.
I hope that by sharing these items you’ll feel inspired to customize my free, 4-page, downloadable packing checklist:
- Pillboxes for holding rings and earrings, stamps, paperclips, safety pins, and pills!
- Mesh laundry bags for hand-washing small, delicate items.
- A small, not too bright night light.
- An extra-large bag to use for dirty laundry.
- Shoe bags so shoes don’t soil clothing.
- Packing cubes for keeping clothes organized in your suitcase or hotel/cruise ship drawers.
A packing list is important because it ensures that nothing important will be forgotten. You’ll probably have some of your own out-of-the-ordinary items that you’ll want to include on your packing list. Post the list where you and your family members can conveniently add to it as you move towards your departure date. Keeping a paper copy of the packing list in your carry-on or an electronic copy on your phone can be useful when repacking. My 4-page packing list has helped a lot of my clients remember to do things before leaving home.
Pack-light travelers are encouraged to select only the items that are essential to their journey.
Before your trip, you may want to review all of the to-do tasks that I’ve included on the 4-page, Things to Pack for a Vacation checklist too.
Bon voyage!
