The absolute musts to keep in mind for the ones who put off packing until the last minute
The bags are empty, its potential contents are strewn all over the bed and floor, and the flight is in just a few hours while you have no idea what you must take with you. You’re panic-stricken and end up packing everything lest you miss the flight. You’ve never had one of those days? You always plan ahead and have everything packed at least a week before the imminent flight date? Then what follows from here on is not for you – you should just flip the page and read the next article. On the other hand, generally everyone else finds it a real struggle packing the absolute must-haves before flying out to a different country or even a nearby city. A lot of the things you’ll consider carrying can be bought from stores abroad like shampoo, toothbrush, tissue, etc. – it is better to leave them out unless you have extra space. It is important to keep it light and only pack things that are absolutely useful and irreplaceable. The following is a list I compiled with the aid of the Internet that is sure to come in handy when you’re about to travel and a little confused about what to pack. The items are listed in no particular order.
Passports and tickets. There is no way you’ll be able get too far without your passport. Passports, tickets and other important documents should never be left behind. In fact, it is recommended that photocopies of such documents be carried along too. It is also important to check the expiry dates of passports and visas.
Compact first aid kit. The kit should be light-weight and comprise of only emergency items like band-aids, antiseptic cream or ointment and painkillers.
Camera.
One does not simply go on vacation and not snap photos. Photos make for the best memories whether they are taken using a DSLR camera or that of your smart phone. Make sure you pack the camera and extra memory sticks in case you need them later.
Devices that play music. You would realize the importance of music if you were ever to sit in a moving bus for a few hours without your favourite tunes to keep you company. Be it your ipod, smart phone or even your ancient Discman – it is most important that you have a personal device that can play music of your choice. Carry an extra pair of earphones as an added measure.
Wet wipes.
This one may seem a little out of place but when travelling you will realize that wet wipes are the Universe’s way of balancing out all that is wrong with the world. Not only can you wipe sweat off your face and neck to get added freshness but you can also tend to minor cuts and scrapes, mop dust off your clothes and shoes, and list goes on.
Money.
Traveller’s cheque, cash or ATM cards – whatever you plan on carrying, it is vital that you do not forget to pack them. It is impossible to travel without money to state the obvious. The extra cash you were planning to take with you should be packed away well in advance in case it slips your mind during the last second rush.
Mosquito repellents.
No matter where you travel to there is a good chance that you’ll encounter the annoying little, blood-consuming pests. If by some miracle you return home without a single mosquito bite after your trip, you should be grateful but it doesn’t hurt to stay prepared.
Torchlight.
This, like the mosquito repellent, should be treated as an extra precaution.
Chargers and extra batteries.
This is not optional. Almost all the appliances you bring to the trip with you will need to be charged. Imagine your cell phone running out of battery power eight hours after you land and there is not a store for a few hundred kilometres where you can purchase a charger. Or worse still, your ipod runs out of charge. Take batteries too, for the torchlight.
Medicines and prescriptions.
Always double check to see if you have your meds in order along with the doctor’s prescriptions. Sometimes, the brand of whichever drug you require might not be available overseas, therefore, be sure to take a full set for as long as the trip may last.
Cell phone.
You have to carry your cell phone. In this day and age, your cell phone is your best friend when abroad. Not only do you get to stay in touch with your family and friends back home but you also get to access your social media accounts, keep updated on daily news, have access to Google maps if you can’t find your way and instantly back up photos to your cloud drive and share them on Facebook. The list can be endless but you get the picture.