Good
packing requires
scads of
creative imagination and the organizational abilities of a field
marshal. First you need to imagine all the activities you could
possibly undertake. Then you must gather appropriate
clothing and accessories. And, finally, you squeeze it all into a
suitcase. Impossible? So it seems. But these suggestions may
help:
-
Make
a packing list far ahead of time, adding and subtracting as time goes
by. You’ll end up with a more reasonable list than if you pack at the
last minute.
-
Bring photocopies of vital documents like passports and medical or
eyeglass/contact prescriptions. Place one set in your own suitcase and
another in your spouse's suitcase (and your spouse should do the
same).
-
Bring photocopies of a contact list for credit card companies, health
insurers, and banks. Place one copy in your own suitcase and another
in your spouse's suitcase (and he or she should do the same). This
will come in handy if your wallet is stolen or a medical emergency
arises.
-
Bring solid colors that can be easily mixed and matched.
-
Be
sensitive to foreign customs. If you’ll be traveling in a conservative
country, don’t wear mini skirts and plunging necklines.
-
Remember that drip-dry, permanent press clothing gets fewer wrinkles.
-
Bring a plastic bag to keep dirty laundry separate from clean clothes.
-
If
possible, bring only two pairs of shoes (perhaps dress shoes and
comfortable walking-around shoes). Put them in individual plastic bags
and place them around suitcase edges, with soles touching the case.
-
Fill
up every nook and cranny. For instance, pack socks or other small
items into shoes, or stuff underwear into jacket shoulders (which also
helps maintain the jacket’s shape).
-
Don’t bring regular-sized containers of shampoo, cold cream, etc.
Drugstores sell small, light-weight plastic containers that hold small
amounts of your favorites.
-
Pack
lotions and creams separately from your clothes in a zip-top plastic
bag (or buy a small kit made specifically for such items).
-
Never pack valuables in luggage destined for the belly of the plane.
Anything valuable or vital (airline tickets, passport, medication,
medical prescriptions, jewelry, camera, etc.) should be carried
aboard. Be sure to check the Transportation Security Administration's
latest requirements for what you're legally allowed to take
on the airplane.
-
Bring along a folded nylon tote bag to carry home anything you might
buy.
-
Bring extra batteries for all equipment.
-
Take
your packing list with you. That way you can re-check your suitcase
when heading home. It’s also helpful when making a claim if the
airlines lose you luggage.
-
Don’t overlook these items—you'll be thankful if you need them (and
you'll probably need at least one of them at some point):
