Chances are, you’ve gone on vacations in the past and asked yourself, “Why did I pack that? What was I thinking?” These questions are not uncommon when it comes to what to pack for vacation. While location, weather, and accommodations may dictate what goes into your suitcase, consider your own convenience as well – especially if your tour includes multiple locations. Here is a guide of 8 things you should never pack for vacation:
A Different Outfit for Each Day
Having a variety of options for your daily attire is a good idea, but there is no reason to pack an entirely new outfit for each day. Too much clothing will leave little space for much else. Select several core tops and bottoms in a neutral tone and then plan your other items to mix and match throughout the time on your guided tour.
Hardcover Books
Reading is a great way to relax and you should bring along materials that you’ve wanted to read. However, limit yourself to one hardcover, or utilize reading apps on your phone or tablet. Download as many books or magazines as you want on your device in order to free up valuable space in your suitcase and hand luggage.
Excessive Hair Tools and Products
Blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons, and large bottles of hair products should not all travel with you throughout your vacation. Most hotels rooms will have hair dryers, or you can ask for one at the front desk. If you absolutely need to manage your hair, limit yourself to just one item. Remember that if you decide to take tools that need to be plugged in, the electrical outlet overseas may require a converter.
Valuable Jewelry
Do not take jewelry or accessories that you would not want to lose. If your guided YMT tour includes multiple stops and you will be on the move on a regular basis, keep expensive watches, rings, earrings, handbags, and other sentimental items at home. When unsure about a specific item, ask yourself whether you would be comfortable losing it.
Sheets and Towels
There is no need to pack sheets and towels, as your hotel will provide them. Sheets and towels are bulky and may fill up your entire suitcase. Feel free to include a few washcloths in your luggage, however, as they take up little space. If you need extra bath towels during your stay, simply call housekeeping to ask for several more.
Shoes
Like clothing, extra pairs of shoes you may or may not wear is not necessary. Pack one pair that will act as your day-to-day footwear, a formal pair for a nice evening out, and flip-flops/sandals if you are traveling in spring or summer. Multiple pairs of dress shoes or sandals will add weight to your luggage.
Sporting Equipment
Keep bulky sporting equipment at home. If your hotel has workout facilities or is associated with a golf course, you will be able to use their equipment or rent them at the course clubhouse.
The Contents of Your Entire Wallet
Before departing for your trip, go through your wallet and remove everything you will not be using while abroad. Limit yourself to two credit cards to reduce the risk of having to cancel them all if your wallet gets lost or stolen.
Next time you are in the process of packing for your YMT tour, think twice about including the items above. Make a packing list that takes weather, your itinerary, and convenience into account. Stick to it as much as you can to avoid scenarios such as losing a valuable item or needing something you didn’t have the space to pack.
