You’ve taken the time off, booked flights and hotels, and even thought about the activities you want to get into while you’re away. Now, it’s time to pack! When it comes to creating packing lists for vacation, knowing what essentials to bring along with you make planning a breeze. We put together this vacation essentials list for your next summer holiday vacation.
Travel-Sized Multi-Purpose or Solid Beauty Products Whether you’re traveling with a carry-on or just don’t want to bring all of your full-sized skincare and beauty goodies, finding products optimized for travel is key for any vacation essentials list. Smaller sizes of products you already use are always a great idea, but also consider looking for products that serve multiple purposes, like an overall cleanser that can double as body wash and shampoo, or a tinted moisturizer with SPF. Additionally, you can free up some space for other liquids and gels by choosing a few solid body products like body butter sticks, solid perfume, or hair care bars.
Portable Tech, Universal Adapters & Organizers Between entertaining yourself during possible layovers to staying connected while you’re away, having tech close at hand is imperative. Whether it’s headphones, earbuds, in-flight bluetooth adapters, cameras, chargers and cables, keep them organized in a zipped case so you don’t leave anything behind. Depending on where you’re headed, be sure to also grab a universal adapter so you aren’t surprised by an electrical outlet that looks and operates differently than you’re used to.
Wipes and Sanitizer If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that we should be taking germs seriously. Carrying wipes and hand sanitizer can help keep bacteria from ultra-high traffic services in airports and on public transit at bay. With plenty of travel-sized and single-use options out there, keep a few in the most accessible pockets in your carry-on.
Waterproof Bags If your summer getaway involves days spent on the beach, at the pool, or jumping into lakes, you'll need something to pack your wet swim gear in. While a plastic grocery bag works in a pinch, a waterproof bag with a secure zip and fold closure are great to have on any beach vacation pack list to ensure your wet items don’t get anything else wet when they’re all packed together.
Cool & Comfortable Clothes As much as we all love the sun, staying cool and comfortable is one of the most important things to think about. No matter your style, stay away from bulky knits and find items you love that are cropped, flowy, or stretchy, in light, breathable fabrics you can easily move around in. Don’t forget to accessorize with items that keep you protected from harmful UV rays like wide brimmed or floppy sun hats, baseball caps, and visors.
Handheld or Rechargeable Fan Although carrying around a portable AC unit might be impractical, there are numerous options available to keep you cool during your trip. Consider carrying a collapsible handheld fan, or explore motorized alternatives that can be recharged before heading back out or plugged into a device for a power boost. Many are small enough to slip into a purse or pocket, with some attached to a wearable lanyard or designed to fit around the back of your neck for constant cooling action.
To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation, it’s always a good idea to start packing at least a few days before your trip, and create a checklist with some of the items above so you don’t miss anything important.
By Sajae Elder