There are some items that most people – if not everyone – would be thankful to have when visiting a different corner of the globe
Man’s love for exploring new places is an integral part of his whole being. From going on a heritage tour in Dubai or a trip to the Eiffel Tower, most people would never miss a chance to spend time marvelling at the many wonders of the world.
The quality of the trip will depend on how well you’ve prepared for the different aspects of the trip. Besides making arrangements for transportation and booking a hotel, you also need to pack essential items that will help you have a wonderful time and ensure your well-being.
Of course, what you need to pack may not be the same as what others have in their checklists. After all, everyone is different.
Aside from the obvious differences in gender-related items, you may also prefer some things that others may not deem necessary to bring. The way you travel is also a factor, as solo travellers may need to bring more items than those who go on trips with a group of other people with whom they can share possessions or supplies.
Still, there are some items that most people – if not everyone – would be thankful to have when visiting a different corner of the globe. These include the six things listed below:
1. Clothing
Clothes usually take up the biggest space in traveller’s luggage. Every item the clothing you pack must be relevant for the trip to ensure that you don’t end up allotting valuable luggage space for items you won’t be wearing during your travels.
When deciding on the number of outfits you need to bring, the length of your stay is only one factor to consider. You must also think about your destination (particularly the weather there) and the activities included in your itinerary.
Below are some more considerations you can use to decide what to pack for your trip:
Multipurpose items
Each clothing item you bring should serve more than one purpose if your goal is to pack light. Of course, they don’t need to be “convertible” in order to serve several purposes.
For instance, convertible pants are two-in-one and may work as multipurpose clothing in theory. However, these may not be very flattering for most girls, which means they may not want to wear them. Instead, find something that is functional and fashionable at the same time (e.g., travel pants).
Activities
When going on a trip abroad, the primary source of fun would be the activities you have planned. For everything from tours of temples and mountain treks to visits to famous restaurants and clubs, you have to make sure that the clothes you bring will be appropriate in various settings.
To be safe, choose those that are stylish but not overly revealing.
For example, a maxi dress can be great for every type of situation, but a low-neckline ensemble may not. Button-up blouses are also quite versatile, so long as they aren’t made with a sheer fabric that might reveal too much. Similarly, short shorts are pleasing to the eye, but there are cases wherein they are simply just too casual for the surroundings or occasion.
Remember to pack conservative alternative clothing, especially if your itinerary includes visits to religious sites or if you’re travelling to a less touristy area.
Luggage space
Before deciding what clothes to pack, try to roll them up to see how much space they will occupy in your luggage. If the piece of clothing seems quite bulky, consider an alternative that is more compact when rolled up. Remember, that even in cold climates, layering clothing is more effective than wearing single bulky pieces.
There’s an exception, of course. If the item can be reused frequently and matches many of your other clothing choices, think twice about leaving it home. These pieces of clothing (e.g., jeans) may have a significant bulk, but their functionality definitely outweighs this disadvantage.
Read more: Cold Weather Camping Tips: How to go on camping in Winter Season?
2. Toiletries
Toiletries are another example of essential things to include in your packing list. Like clothing, each person has their own preferences on this matter.
Still, it pays to identify some of the basics that everyone would need to have in their bags, including:
- Haircare essentials – These can be both shampoo and conditioner, or a two-in-one product
- Bath soap – These can pertain to a bar of soap or shower gel
- Dental hygiene kit – This must include a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss
- Lotion and moisturizer
- Deodorant
- Nail clippers and nail file
- Comb or hairbrush and some elastics
3. Full Refillable Water Bottle
You cannot possibly enjoy the best excursion in Dubai if you’re dizzy and dehydrated from the heat of the sun. Even if you’re not headed to the desert, you will still need to rehydrate throughout the duration of your tour.
If you’re planning to go on a one- or two-hour hike with moderate difficulty, you should bring at least two litres of water. Two-day backpacking trips require a minimum of eight litres, which already includes the water you may need for cooking.
Remember to adjust accordingly based on the conditions in your destination, and bring a water bottle that’s the right size.
4. Food
Wherever you go, you must remember to pack snacks for a quick bite. This is particularly helpful for outdoor activities and journeys that involve extended travel times.
If possible, bring healthy foods like fresh fruits or vegetables. Hard-boiled eggs, granola bars, or sandwiches wrapped in foil or any sealable container should be enough to get you through the day.
5. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is always crucial for a trip. Since there’s no way you can know whether you’ll have access to medical supplies where you are going, you must bring a comprehensive set everywhere you go.
Besides the basics(bandages, thermometer, alcohol wipes, a plastic syringe, rehydration salts, and antiseptic solution), you should also bring emergency medicines. These include wound creams and over-the-counter pain medicine. Just remember to keep these to a minimum if some items can be purchased almost anywhere you go unless you’re travelling to a remote area.
You should also bring other medicines prescribed to you by your physician. As much as possible, pack more than you’ll need for the duration of your trip. You’ll never know when delays may cause you to get stuck in your destination for another day or two.
6. Important Travel Documents and Money
If you’re travelling to a different country or territory, you will need to have proof of your identity and the legality of your presence there. This includes your ID, passport, and visa (some destinations may not require this).
It would also be better to bring both your debit and credit cards and some cash, just in case the place you’re headed won’t accept one or the other.
Be Ready to Travel
To make the most of your trip, you must ensure that you’re prepared for any situation by packing the most important items in your luggage. Use this list and modify it as you see fit so you can pack light while still having everything you need before you go.
AUTHOR BIO
Mithu Agarwal is the Commercial Director at Seawings LLC, a trusted provider of commercial seaplane tours and charters in the UAE. The company offers aerial tours of the UAE, taking off from the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club through which you can discover the thrill of travelling by a seaplane. Whisking passengers to 1500 feet, the route soars past the iconic city skylines, offering sublime views of the country’s architectural marvels.
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