Successful Vacations Begin with a Well-Planned Packing List

Planning a vacation is not exactly rocket science, but it does require some attention to detail. With a little preparation and a good packing list, you can enjoy a stress-free getaway. Start your list with the following items and amend it depending on your individual circumstances.

If you pack a photocopy of the list, you can add to it during your vacation. The next time you travel, your updated list will be better than ever.

Passport, Visas, ID, and ...

Itemize all the important documents you will need, including ID, passport, visas, and driver's license. Photocopy everything before you go. Store the photocopies and original documents in different locations so that if you lose one, you still have the other. Whenever possible, keep the originals in a secure location like a hotel safe.

Travel Insurance Particulars and Proof of Coverage

Trip cancellations and out-of-country medical emergencies can be very expensive. Buy a good travel insurance policy suitable for your needs. Familiarize yourself with coverage details and exclusions. Carry a photocopy of the policy with you.

Prescriptions for Medications and Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

Arrange with your doctor and optometrist for signed prescriptions that you can present to customs officials or medical authorities if needed. If you have existing medical conditions, include a doctor's note with full details. Carry all medications in original containers.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

Create a list of important emergency numbers for each leg of your trip. This should include medical, fire, police, and embassy numbers as well as any others you might consider important.

Information for Excursions, Shopping, and Sightseeing

Use a small portfolio case or file folder to store all documentation for leisure activities. This can include Internet printouts, brochures, maps, info packets, guidebooks, etc. If you cannot find maps for one or more destinations, obtain them as soon as possible after you arrive.

Ballpoint Pen

Until you need one and cannot find it, you might not realize how handy this little item can be. Fill out paperwork at customs, sign credit card slips, doodle on the plane ...

Emergency First-Aid Kit

You can find small first-aid kits in most department stores and pharmacies. They will cover most minor emergencies such as sunburn, itchy rashes, diarrhea, small scrapes, etc. Include necessary extras. For instance, if you have a severe allergy to bees, you might want to carry an epinephrine auto-injector.

Hand Sanitizer Gel or Antibacterial Wipes

Pack hand sanitizer gel in a size that meets with current travel guidelines: 100 ml/100 grams (3.4 oz) or less. To use, rub gel into your hands while you silently hum the "Happy Birthday" song to yourself twice. There is no need to dry and rinse after wards.

Antibacterial wipes are handy for many purposes: to wipe up small spills, clean hands, or cleanse dirty eating surfaces, for example.

Combination Converter/Transformer Kit

Foreign countries may not use the same type of electrical power or outlets that you do at home. If you plan to take appliances like curling irons or battery chargers, a combination converter/transformer kit will allow you to use them.

Entertainment

Pack everything you need to avoid boredom during delays and downtime on long trips. This might include items such as handheld games, small children's toys, crossword puzzles, magazines, MP3 players, and eBook readers. Be sure to remember a decent set of headphones or earbuds. Although you can purchase earphones from airlines, the quality is usually not great.

Photography Equipment

An expensive camera is a target for thieves when you travel. Can you manage with a cheap digital? Be sure to carry extra memory card(s) and batteries, as well as your charging unit, if applicable.

Small Alarm Clock that You Can See in the Dark

Hotels sometimes anchor alarm clocks to permanent positions that are difficult to see when you open your eyes in the middle of the night; occasionally, clocks just do not work or are difficult to program. If you carry a familiar alarm with a bright easy-to-read display, you will always have a reliable wake-up call with you.

Location- and Season-Appropriate Clothing

Do some research on the Internet to see what kind of weather conditions you are likely to encounter at your destination and during your trip. Even in tropical countries, windy days can seem cold. Be sure that you are equipped for scorching sun, rain, wind, snow, or any other conditions you might encounter.

Author's Note:

You can find more travel tips like this at 1000Tips4Trips and 111 Travel Directory, as well as accommodations from around the world.