There is a lot to organise before you jet away on holiday. You need to organise your flights and accommodation, plan your activities and book any day trips that you want to do. This is all fun and exciting, until you get to the packing part. Packing is a necessary part of going on holiday, but it’s something that fills a lot of people with dread. After all, you don’t want to arrive and then realise that you’ve forgotten something important. As you prepare for your upcoming holiday, it’s important to make a list of all the essential items that you will need to take with you. There are many things to consider, such as the weather, the activities you will be doing, and how long you’ll be away. This is by no means a quick task, but it’s important if you want to guarantee a successful holiday.
To help you out, we have compiled a list of five essential holiday items that you should make sure to pack before you go.
5 Things Everyone Needs on Holiday
Sun Cream – No matter where you’re going, it’s important to pack sunscreen. Even if you’re travelling to a colder climate, the sun can still damage your skin if you spend too much time in direct sunlight. Make sure to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF 30 or higher, and apply it generously and frequently throughout the day. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and prevent sunburns and other skin damage. This is especially important if you are travelling with children or if you are heading somewhere renowned for good weather, such as the Algarve.
First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is another essential item to pack for your holiday. You never know when you might need it, whether it’s for a minor cut or scrape, a headache, or a more serious injury. Make sure to pack basic supplies such as plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medications that you need. It’s also a good idea to research the nearest medical facilities at your destination, just in case. Though you will be able to buy a lot of these supplies in your chosen destination, it’s usually easier to have some with you. You don’t want to be faced with a medical emergency, only to find that you don’t know where the local pharmacy is.
Comfortable Shoes – If you’re going on a holiday where you will be doing a lot of walking or exploring, comfortable shoes are a must. Make sure to pack a pair that’s broken in and fits well, and that provides good support for your feet. You don’t want to end up with blisters or sore feet halfway through your trip. This could hugely impact how much fun you have, and it could even lead to you having to miss out on an exciting activity. There’s nothing wrong with packing other shoes for evenings or days at the beach, but also make sure to have a pair that’s comfortable and ideal for long walks.
Travel Adapter – If you’re travelling internationally, you will need a travel adapter to charge your electronic devices. Make sure to do your research beforehand to find out what type of adapter you’ll need for your destination. It’s also a good idea to pack a power strip, especially if you’re travelling with multiple devices that need to be charged. Buying an adapter abroad can be difficult, so it’s always best to have one or two with you before you head off.
Reusable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important when you’re on holiday, especially if you’re doing a lot of physical activity. Pack a reusable water bottle so that you can fill it up throughout the day and avoid buying bottled water. This is not only better for the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. If you are heading somewhere where drinking tap water isn’t advised, buy big bottles of water and decant them into your reusable bottle.
With these essential holiday items and a well packed suitcase, you’ll be ready for a fun and stress free trip.In addition to these five essential items, there are a few other things to consider packing depending on your destination and itinerary. For example, if you’re going on a beach holiday, you’ll want to pack a swimsuit, beach towel, and flip flops. If you’re going on a city break, you might want to pack a guidebook or map, and comfortable clothes and shoes for exploring.
It’s also important to pack light and only bring what you need. This will make travelling easier and more enjoyable, and will also save you from having to pay extra baggage fees. Make a list of everything you need to pack, and cross off items that aren’t essential. You can always buy things like toiletries and snacks at your destination if you need to.
Don’t forget to double check your packing list before you leave, and make sure you haven’t forgotten anything important. Though you will be able to buy a lot of replacement items when you arrive, this can be costly and inconvenient. The earlier you start packing, the easier it is to remember all of your essential items. Start a list and add to it as time goes on, and as you think of more things.