Travel Packing Checklist

You've booked your trip, and are getting excited about it, but now you need to get packing! Packing can feel a bit stressful - which you don't need before going on holiday - so here's the ultimate packing list to get you started.

General Packing Tips

The most important thing to remember is that unless you are travelling to the middle of nowhere, it's not the end of the world if you forget items. So don't stress too much while packing! It's convenient to have everything you need, but you can get anything you missed.

Also, many people over-pack, taking extra suitcases and then not using half of the items they brought. While you want to be prepared, you don't need to overload yourself, and then have to lug everything around, especially if you're going to be travelling to multiple destinations. Start packing with a pre-trip checklist, and compare it to your planned activities and your travel style. If you know you'll be eating out at fine restaurants, you'll need dressier clothes than those who will be staying on the beach the whole time. Checking your list against your activities will make sure you don't miss any specialized travel gear you may need.

For most destinations, roller bags are ideal, so you can simply pull your luggage around. Newer wheeled bags are lighter, too, so are easier to pick up when you have to. If you're going to be hiking lots or travelling to undeveloped areas, light backpacks are recommended.

Packing cubes can help you fit everything; they are very light, and compress your items down to reduce the space needed. A luggage tracker could come in very handy, too.

Using a RFID purse or wallet is recommended to protect against RFID skimming theft, where wireless transmitters steal credit card information. A money belt is useful too, to keep money away from pickpockets.

Ultimate Packing List

Pack most of your items in your checked bags, so you don't have to worry about heavy bags while boarding and waiting in the airport.

Clothes

• Extra clothes based on the weather forecast for where you are going. Make sure all pieces can be mixed and matched for the most flexibility, and choose clothing items that are wrinkle resistant. Quantities will depend on how long you are going for, but remember, you can wash your items, too, if you're on an extended trip.
  • Pants and shorts
  • Skirts
  • Long sleeved shirts
  • Short sleeved shirts
  • Dresses
  • Sweaters and cold weather wear if necessary
  • Bathing suit and beach wear for beach vacations
  • Rain jacket
  • Underwear
  • Shoes, including dress shoes, hiking shoes, and sandals
  • Socks
  • Sun hats, sunglasses, belts and other accessories

First Aid Kit and Toiletries

• Bandaids and blister bandages or moleskins for blisters and minor wounds
• Anti-nausea or diarrhea medication, especially when travelling to certain locations
• Over-the-counter painkillers for headaches, muscle strains, and more
• Antihistamines if you have allergies
• Insect repellent and bug bite lotion
• Antiseptic spray
• Eye drops
• Body powder
• Tweezers and Nail Clippers
• Face/Body Moisturizer

• Extra toiletries in a toiletry bag, including deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair products, makeup, etc.

Miscellaneous

• If you're going to be taking lots of photos and videos, an external hard drive to back up to is recommended
• Brush, comb, hair ties
• Razors
• Plastic bags for dirty clothing and ziplock bags to protect documents and electronics around water
• Children or baby essentials, including diapers, toys, wipes, creams, etc.
• Activity-specific items, such as snorkeling gear, skis, or other items you need and don't want to rent at your destination.
• Thin microfibre towel

Carry-On Bag

For your carry on luggage, you'll only want essential toiletries and needs. Many airlines are getting more stringent about only allowing a small bag for carry on, and some are starting to charge for any larger than a purse or small personal item. While you do want to keep this light, there are some critical essentials you will want to have with you, in case your checked luggage is delayed or goes missing.

Because of security requirements, make sure any liquids or gels are in small containers of 100 mL or less, and always check the latest restrictions, or pack them in your checked bag. These need to be kept in a separate clear ziploc bag

• Travel documents and ID, including:
  • Passport and visa
  • Driver's license
  • Boarding passes (if you checked in online)
  • Tickets, itineraries, reservations
  • Be sure to check expiry dates
• In addition to your bank and credit cards, have emergency numbers for your bank and credit card companies available, in case anything gets lost or stolen. You should also have some emergency cash available, in case you are unable to use your cards for any reason.
• Travel insurance details
• Emergency contacts
• Immunization records as necessary
• Prescription medications in their original containers
• Book, tablet or other item for entertainment on the plane
  • A tablet holder or travel attachment makes watching videos on your device easier
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Sanitary supplies
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Travel camera and camera bag
• Tissues
• Collapsible water bottle so you can fill it up with water once you are through security

Electronics such as phones, tablets, and laptops should go in your carry-on luggage. Don't forget:

• Cords, batteries and a powerbank
• Noise cancelling headphones
• Surge protectors
• Power travel adaptors if needed for international travel, as various countries have different plug-ins
• Travel pillow and eye mask for longer flights
• Compression socks

If you're just starting to plan your vacation, Turks and Caicos is a tropical paradise that's sure to please any traveller. Kokomo Botanical Resort lets you fully appreciate the charms of the islands in luxurious comfort.