Make Sure You Don’t Leave Anything Essential Behind!
Spring break is fast approaching, so it’s time to turn your attention to packing and start planning out what to take with you. In this post, you’ll find suggestions for clothing, technology, toiletries, and medication, as well as advice on what to leave behind.
Clothing
Usually, travelers are recommended to only bring outfits for a couple of days to keep your bag light; however, it’s spring break. Since you likely won’t be traveling to multiple places, you might want to look your best. Therefore, as long as everything fits in your luggage and you can carry it without too many problems, take as many outfits as you like.
If you’re heading to a beach destination, pack two or three swimsuits along with a cover-up for non-pool/beach areas. Also, bring some lightweight jeans for any cooler evenings. If you’ll be heading abroad, look into local customs before you leave to see how much you need to cover up to show respect. For example, in the Middle East, you’ll want longer sleeves and long pants for exploring. When visiting temples, make sure you have something to cover up to show respect—a shawl usually works for this.
Sunglasses and flip-flops are beachwear essentials; however, consider bringing your cheapest pair of both—you don’t want to be upset if you lose or break them. You can jazz up your outfit with a few pieces of statement jewelry—again, choose anything you’d be comfortable losing if necessary.
Technology
Spring break is a vacation, hence you don’t want to pack much of your technology at all! Instead, opt for a few essentials. You’ll want to stay in touch with family, snap countless photos, and make your friends jealous on Snapchat and Instagram, so don’t forget to pack your smartphone in your luggage.
If you’re planning for a more relaxed trip than a constant party, it might be worth loading up your tablet with movies and TV shows to keep you entertained in the evening.
If you wish to capture photos on a camera not connected to your phone, consider taking a GoPro for your photography needs. It’s excellent for action shots—you can put it in a waterproof case and take it in the ocean or while SCUBA diving—and it’s rugged, so it’s unlikely to break after a wild night. If you desire more impressive photography, your typical DSLR is worth packing.
If work needs to be done during spring break, you may want to bring your laptop. If there’s nothing urgent on your agenda, it’s better to leave it behind, as being offline and in the moment is truly the best.
Toiletries
Don’t forget the basics: shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, a razor, deodorant, and shower gel. But what else do you need?
Definitely include sunscreen and aftersun! Invest in some sunscreen with an SPF higher than 20, and remember to reapply every couple of hours. Use after-sun lotion to keep your skin moisturized after a long day in the sun.
For women, it’s worth investing in some dry shampoo for your trip. You will likely be too busy having fun to want to wash and style your hair every day; therefore, high-quality dry shampoo can help your style last a few days longer.
Medication
Packing some Advil is wise for those hangovers and sun overexposure. Furthermore, rehydration sachets are a smart choice—just pop one in a bottle of water, and it can help prevent headaches during your trip. A basic first aid kit filled with band-aids and other essentials is also a must, just in case accidents happen.
Before you leave, pick up a basic travel first aid kit from your local pharmacy to cover most of your needs.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack condoms and/or birth control pills, regardless of your plans. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Other Essentials
A journal: Even if you don’t think you’re the journaling type, it’s always beneficial to have one on hand to document your travel moments. Taking time to write daily can help you fully appreciate your trip and offers a chance to slow down a little.
A beach bag: Instead of using a plastic bag or a daypack, opt for a canvas beach bag, so you have somewhere to keep your essentials without them getting sandy.
A dry bag: Using a dry bag ensures that if you choose to enjoy some ocean time, you can take your valuables without damaging them with ocean water. It also minimizes the risk of theft on the beach.
A safety whistle: This small and lightweight item is essential; pack one in your bag when leaving your room, particularly if you’re traveling alone. If you ever feel endangered, using the whistle can alert others to your situation and help get you assistance.
