What to Take on a Trip: Tips for Perfect Preparation and Safe Travel

Travelling always brings new impressions and emotions. To ensure your trip goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it’s important to prepare thoroughly. This article contains detailed tips to help you avoid troubles and enjoy your journey to the fullest.

Luggage Organization

Proper luggage organization is the key to a comfortable trip.

• Item list: Make a list of items you need to take with you. This will help you not forget anything and avoid excess baggage.
• Categorize items: Divide your items into categories (clothing, shoes, toiletries, etc.) and pack them in separate bags or organizers. This helps you find things quickly and keep your suitcase organized.
• Compression and vacuum bags: Use compression or vacuum bags for clothing to save space in your suitcase. These bags can reduce the volume of items significantly.
• Carry-on backpack: Bring a backpack or small bag for carry-on items. It’s convenient for storing documents, valuables, electronics, medications, water, and other necessities. Make sure the carry-on size complies with airline requirements.
• International adapters: Check the type of outlets in your destination country and bring an appropriate adapter. For instance, Apple offers a travel adapter kit.
• Medical concerns: Visit your doctor and dentist before your trip. Vaccinations should be done in advance, and you can check the list of recommended vaccines at your local clinic.

Four Tips for Easy Packing

• Choose the right luggage: Lightness and convenience are more important than trendy design.
• Avoid liquids in your luggage: They are heavy and may spill.
• Wash clothes on the go: Three pairs of underwear can suffice for any trip.
• Coordinate clothing colors: This increases the number of outfit combinations.

Finances

Financial matters require special attention when preparing for a trip.

• Multiple payment methods: Don’t rely on a single payment method. Bring some cash (within reason) and at least two bank cards from different systems (e.g., Visa and Mastercard). This helps avoid problems in case one card is blocked or card payments are unavailable.
• Set card limits: For security, set daily limits on cash withdrawals and purchases. This minimizes losses in case of theft or card loss.
• Transaction notifications: Enable SMS or push notifications for card transactions to monitor all operations promptly.
• Currency exchange: Learn the exchange rate of your destination’s currency in advance and exchange a small amount before the trip if possible.
• Book early and save: Early bookings often save money, even for small things like airport parking. Ordering currency in advance is also advisable. If picking up currency, bring the card used for the reservation and know the collection point's address.
• Health insurance: Get medical insurance that covers potential medical expenses abroad. Check the insurance terms to ensure they meet your needs.
• Discount and membership cards: If you’re a student, get an international student card (ISIC). Senior tourists may benefit from discounts on transport and flights.

Documents

Checking and preparing documents is one of the most important stages of travel preparation.

• Document copies: Make copies of all essential documents: passport, visa, insurance, tickets, and driver’s license. Scan them and save them in cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) and your email. It’s also recommended to carry printed copies.
• Entry requirements: Check visa requirements for your destination in advance. Ensure your passport is valid for the required duration. Also, find out if health insurance or other documents (e.g., vaccination certificates) are needed.

Travel Safety

Safety is a crucial aspect of any journey.

• Keeping belongings safe: Keep valuable items with you. Use a cross-body bag or anti-theft backpack. Do not leave items unattended in public places.
• Vigilance: Stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Learn basic safety rules in your destination country. Avoid unsafe areas at night.
• Emergency contacts: Save emergency services and embassy contact numbers on your phone.
• Informing loved ones: Let your family or friends know your route and travel plans.

Comfort During Travel

A few simple tips can make your trip more comfortable.

• Food and drinks: Prepare a small amount of food and drinks in advance, especially for long flights or bus rides.
• Entertainment: Download books, movies, music, games, or podcasts to your phone or tablet to pass the time.
• Comfortable clothing and shoes: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for your journey.

Packing List for Travelers

Essentials

• Passport
• Boarding passes
• Foreign currency
• Bank cards
• Maps/route/guidebook
• Health insurance
• Emergency documents

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Camera and charger
• Adapters

Clothing

• Light jacket
• Comfortable shoes
• Sleepwear

Cosmetics

• Sunscreen
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant

Miscellaneous

• First aid kit
• Books
• Travel pillow
• Sewing kit

Preparation for Extreme Conditions

Depending on the type of trip, additional precautions may be necessary.

Mountain Hiking

• Clothing and shoes: Bring comfortable trekking shoes, a warm windbreaker, a raincoat, and a hat.
• Gear: Pack a first aid kit, flashlight, and compass or GPS device.
• Physical fitness: Ensure your physical condition is adequate for hiking.

Travelling to Polar Regions (Antarctica, Arctic)

• Warm clothing: Pack warm, waterproof clothing, thermal underwear, thick socks, a hat, and gloves or mittens.
• Sun protection: Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as snow reflects sunlight strongly.

Tropical Countries

• Insect protection: Bring insect repellents and after-bite treatments.
• Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with high SPF.
• Drinking water: Drink only bottled water and be cautious with street food.

Eco-Friendly Tips

• Reusable bottles and utensils: This reduces single-use plastic waste.
• Eco-bags: Handy for shopping and personal items.
• Recycling: Learn recycling rules at your destination.

By following these tips, you can prepare for your trip and avoid many unpleasant situations. We wish you pleasant and safe travels!