Whether you are getting ready for some sun on the Australian beaches or heading to Europe or the Caribbean, knowing how to pack is important. Before you head to the next swimsuit and Birkenstock sale, don’t make the mistake of believing some of these crazy myths. Be a savvy traveler instead.
Cover Your Shoes in a Shower Cap
We don’t even know where this terrible packing tip originated, but covering your shoes in a shower cap will not protect your clothes from dirt and smells. Even if your women’s flat sandals or boots are clean when you pack them, eventually you will wear them. This means that they will be grimy, smelly, sandy, and dirty. A shower cap will not protect the rest of the items in the luggage. What to do instead? Find a plastic bag large enough to seal your shoes in. For short trips, forgo packing your shoes at all by wearing shoes as you travel.
Now for some trips, like hiking trips in the middle of nowhere, packing soap seems logical. However, in most cases, you will be able to purchase soap when you arrive or simply use the soap the hotel provided. This includes packing shampoos, lotion, hairspray, and other toiletries. Pack what you absolutely need but avoid packing extras. Why?
Some airports will not allow you to bring liquids, which means that you will have to throw them away before your plane takes off. Additionally, there is a much higher chance that a spill will leave your entire wardrobe smelling like your favorite shampoo. The cost of buying travel size toiletries is not high, especially if you purchase them from a local shop and not at the airport or hotel. Some hotels will offer complimentary toiletries, as well. If you do decide to bring soaps and shampoos, then be sure that you bring them in an airport-approved airtight container that will not leak.
Place Your Camera and Jewelry in a Plastic Case
If you are bringing a camera, valuables, or other tech objects, don’t just pack them in any plastic case. Instead, purchase the right type of case for the item. For example, you can buy high-quality camera cases that can be waterproof and protect your camera. Valuables like jewelry should be packed in a locked safe receptacle. If you are worried about theft, hide the small case in a nondescript item, like a t-shirt or wrapped in a small towel. Plastic cases that are not designed for travel easily break and may not be waterproof. Buy the right type of case for your camera, gadget, or valuables. And don’t rely on Ziploc bags, which are unreliable.
Skipping Your Jeans
Yes, jeans take up a lot of room in your suitcase. However, there are few articles of clothing that are as versatile for jeans. Ideal for going about the town, camping, or going to the beach, jeans are a necessity for any serious traveler. Avoid these pitfalls of packing on your next big trip. Enjoy worry-free no-hassle travel.