With the holidays around the corner, I have been reading some of my previous posts and blogs on packing. I thought it might be good to chat about it again, and this time in two parts. Today, we look at what to pack and next week we look at how to pack for your holiday.

Whether you are travelling locally or overseas, it’s always worthwhile making lists of what you need to take with you. That way you don’t forget anything and don’t worry about possibly forgetting something really important.

Here is a fairly extensive list covering all aspects of international and local travel. It’s a good starting point for your trip, and you can add or take away what is not relevant to you

Important documents

• Passport and photocopies
• Visae (if required)
• Tickets/ e-tickets
• Travel insurance
• Accommodation and car hire booking references
• Currency/ credit cards/ debit cards
• Driver’s licence
• Guidebooks

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hair brush, comb, hairdryer
• Razor
• Deodorant
• Nail clippers/scissors
• Mirror
• Contact lenses, solutions and spare glassesMedications
• First aid kit
• Soap, shower gel
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturising cream
• Make up
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent (if necessary)
• Small towel or facecloth

Clothing

• Try to pack layers to accommodate all weather
• Pick 3 colours and mix and match your clothes
• Neutral shoes – comfy walking shoes, smart shoes, and slippers or slip slops (can be used in suspect showers)
• Enough underwear for the length of the trip
• Raincoat, umbrella
• Hot climate – swimsuit, sun hat and sarong (doubles as sheet, wrap, towel, scarf or skirt)
• Cold climate – thermal underwear, hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks, good coat or jacket

Useful/other

• Camera and charger
• Cell phone and charger
• Laptop if necessary or tablet and charger
• Worldwide adaptor plug
• Sewing kit
• Small multipurpose tool, scissors
• Small torch / flashlight
• Earplugs and chewing gum – great on an airplaneSafety pins, rubber bands, Ziploc bags
• Stationery
• Reading material, games

Next week, we will work on packing our suitcases….