Time to Get Packin’
The seasoned travelers have their systems down. For those less accustomed to the wardrobe and amenity downsizing of travel, packing can be a daunting task. Five simple rules can help you balance security, practicality and brute strength.
Rule Number One: Less is more – when it comes to luggage.
- Don't pack more than you can carry – EASILY. You will be required to carry your own luggage, so pack accordingly. Plan on wearing the same outfit more than once and pack things you can mix and match. No matter the means of travel: bus, train, plane or automobile, less luggage and smart packing will make your entire trip much more manageable.
Rule Number Two: Remember the Necessities
- Bring comfortable, low-heeled shoes; you will be walking a lot.
- Wear a watch. You will need it. Synchronize watch with chaperones, students and the local time of your destination.
- Pack a snack and plastic water bottle in your back pack
- Remember your sunglasses.
- Bring a hat.
Rule Number Three: Dress Appropriately. Consider the weather, the culture and your activities.
- Keep in mind, spring weather is particularly variable. Always include layers and water resistant gear. Check the local forecast of your destination before packing. ( www.weather.com)
- Respect the culture and people. Short shirts, low-rider pants, vulgar t-shirts… are not appropriate for travel.
- Be considerate to others you are traveling with. When sharing accommodations with classmates or colleagues, more (coverage) is less (insulting).
- If you plan to swim, bring a swimming suit but leave the bikini at home.
Rule Number Four: Pack Smart
- Do NOT bring valuable jewelry with you.
- Bring toiletries. Many travel guides advise picking up toiletries when you get there. But for student groups, this is not a good option. Remember to check school policies on what may be packed including pocket knives and medications.
- Use one and pack one. With efficient packing you will have ample room to include an extra backpack. Use this to lighten your load on sightseeing days. On the return trip home, use it for souvenirs and luggage over flow.
- Bring a pair of slippers or flip-flops.
- If traveling abroad, check for any electrical conversion requirements for appliances. You will need both an adapter (for the size of the plug) and a transformer (to convert the voltage). If you plan to take an electrical appliance, purchase the adapter and transformer for it here.
- If you take a clock make sure it's either a battery, wind-up or quartz-run. Even with a transformer, electric clocks will lose 10 minutes every hour.
- Bring your glasses – even if you wear contacts.
- Pack a plastic bag for your dirty clothes.
Rule Number Five: Identification
- Put your full name and address on all luggage and personal items.
- Carry a picture ID (driver's license, ID card, passport, student ID, etc.) which matches the name on your airline ticket (if traveling by air).
- Determine where and when to meet your group on departure day. All participants will need to check in as a group
- Make a photocopy of your itinerary and all identification documents including passports, visa, driver’s licenses, credit cards. Leave one copy at home. Carry a second one in your luggage. Originals stay in your fanny pack or with your group leader.
Download a packing checklist here. (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
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