As you should plan everything when you travel it makes all the more sense to plan your packing. And any packing should start with making a packing list. If you give yourself enough time and put in some thought into your packing you can avoid carrying a lot of unnecessary items. You can also do away with carrying heavy loads.
Generally you get most things at the place where you are traveling to. But that involves a lot of hassle and also eats into your travel budget. So it is better that you have a packing list done and pack accordingly when you are going to a new place for the very first time.
Packing list helps you not just to pack but if you are carrying it in your purse it can be a treasure in case you lose your luggage. It also comes in handy when you have to repack all your stuff in the hotel as you prepare to return.
The very first thing you need would be a backpack, especially if you are planning on a road trip on foot. Make sure it is sturdy and is comfortable to carry. Backpacks are especially helpful if you plan to move around instead of traveling from one fixed base.
You also can carry a courier bag along with your backpack.
If you are hiking then remember to carry warm clothes and jackets. Also have warm socks with you. Weather changes can be sudden and can catch you unawares. You have to be prepared for any situation. If your trip involves visits to religious places and cultural sites it would be sensible to carry some conservative clothes like tops with sleeves and long skirts.
Since your trip can take you to places where a doctor might not be easily accessible you should always carry a first aid kit. Pack some bandages, pain relievers, antiseptics, antibiotics, common medication, a thermometer and a Swiss Army knife. You can also carry mosquito repellants and a sunscreen lotion.
Carry with yourself the very basic outdoor equipments like compass, waterproof matches, flashlight and a hat. You can also bring along sealable plastic bags for your damp clothes, a string for an ingenious clothesline, rubber bands and earplugs.
Have a map of the road trip with yourself and make sure you know how to read one. It is better if you make yourself a map for the trip exclusively. Also have the necessary documents like your passport, travelers checks credit cards packed into a waterproof packet.
If you are traveling with your family you should pack board games and activities. This would be especially fun for your children during the evenings. If you are traveling alone you can consider taking a few books with you.
In case you are going for a trip on foot the most important thing would be your shoes. See that they are comfortable and durable. Don’t compromise on your shoes or you can end up with blisters and exhausted by evening on the very first day.
Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture all those amazing views that you will get to see during the course of your trip. You can also keep a log of your trip. Would be of great emotional value in years to come.
