Shopping for a Trip
A little planning and some judicious shopping can go a long way
towards making travel pleasant.
Of course, I am famous for being the one who just grabs a few
things, tosses them into a backpack, and takes off. This is
because I used to travel a great deal, and have learned which
things are absolute necessities for me.
The list of necessities will be different for different people
and for different trips, of course. Things that will serve a
business traveler going to a meeting out of town and staying
little more than overnight, will be different from the things
you would need on a lengthy cruise vacation.
There are a few things that are simply essential. Many of them
come in small travelers kits, which are perfect.
I found that a travelers sewing kit, which usually includes a
few safety pins, needles and thread, can be invaluable. You can
buy a very small one at almost any dollar type store!
If you are in the habit of taking vitamins, you know that you
can very quickly feel the difference if you go a few days
without them. However, carrying around bottles of what looks
like drugs can upset the customs officials. Buy childrens
vitamins - the brightly colored ones in different shapes.
There's no arguing with what those are.
If you do take a prescription drug on a regular basis, be sure
it is in the proper bottle with your name and your doctor's name
on it in case there is a question. Over the counter drugs should
be in their original container. Many of the more common remedies
can be purchased in small handy travel containers.
Many people can use the small bottles of shampoo, soap, and so
on at the motel or hotel. Sometimes you may not be going to stay
at hotel or motel that has them. Those of us who have allergies
have to plan ahead and take our own. Almost every brand of
personal care item these days does offer a small travel size. If
yours does not, and you travel often, go ahead and snatch a
couple of those little bottles from the hotel, or buy a small
size of another brand, rinse them out thoroughly, and refill
with your own brand for the next trip.
The same applies if you have a particular facial care or make up
item you use daily. Men, don't forget your shaving things.
Another quick hint for those with allergies. If you share my
allergies to certain laundry soaps, you will find that the
sheets at some hotels will irritate your skin. This isn't much
fun. I got around it by taking a blanket that rolled up into a
small bundle with me when I traveled. (Sometimes blankets of
this sort are sold as "car blankets", which you would keep in
the trunk of your car should you be stranded in the cold) Not
only can you roll up in it and sleep on top of the bed clothes
if you find they irritate you, if you get cold on the train or
plane (as I often do) you can snuggle down under your own handy
blanket.
I think at least one nice fluffy mindless novel is required
equipment for any trip. No matter how well planned, trust me, at
some point you will end up sitting around waiting with nothing
to do. When you are done with that novel, leave it behind for
another bored traveler (register it at bookcrossing.com first!) and
pick up another one at the next store you come to.
Good luggage will go a long ways towards making your trip
enjoyable. I've traveled with my junk stuffed in a black plastic
trash bag - and with one of those great new suitcases with the
wheels on the bottom and an adjustable handle. Guess which was
more fun! You don't want to spend half your trip worrying if
your suitcase is going to spring open or disintegrate, or
dragging around something that is cumbersome to move around.
Quality luggage is one item you should not skimp yourself on.
Bargains can be had on quality luggage. If you have plenty of
time, check out your local Goodwill or used items stores.
Sometimes someone will buy a new set of luggage for a special
trip and then never use it again. Eventually, it winds up at the
Salvation Army store, or in their garage sale, or on eBay.
Shopping for clothes for your trip is a whole different subject,
and will depend largely on where you are going and how long you
plan to stay. Keep in mind you want things that are as light as
possible, and that will roll up into a smallish bundle for
packing. Items that you can mix and match will make a long trip
easier to pack for. Materials that do not wrinkle easily are a
good idea, especially if you have a special occasion you will be
dressing for.
Make a list of the things you need to take well ahead of time.
You will probably find yourself adding things as you think of
them! You can use this for a shopping list before your trip if
there are items you need to purchase before you depart. Then as
you begin to pack to leave, you can go down your list to be sure
you haven't forgotten anything.
Nothing like getting to the beach and discovering you forgot to
pack your swimsuit.
Have a great trip!