Want some more ideas for packing? Check these:
Clothing Items
- Hiking boots
- Dress shoes
- Flip-flops/shower shoes
- Socks/long & short
- Dress socks
- Underpants
- Undershirts/bras
- Pajamas
- Wind/rain jackets
- Light fleece
- Heavy fleece
- Umbrella
- Jeans
- Belts
- Dress pants
- Dress/Skirts
- Jewelry/watches
- Sunglasses
- Long Underwear/top & pants
- Turtlenecks
- Tee-shirts/short & long-sleeved
- Dress shirts
- Shawl, Pashmina, or Large Scarf
I know I’m being redundant. But, in case you think this is another long list, think about where you’re going and what you’re going to do. If you don’t need a heavy fleece when you travel to Cancun, or hiking boots when you’re headed to the opera in Paris…don’t pack them. Don’t wear pajamas? Don’t take any.
Customize…customize.
On a serious note, I always have a packable umbrella and a lightweight rain jacket in my luggage. The weather report may say no rain, but I’ve heard that before. As a rule, I don’t travel in jeans. I want something more flexible.
Scarves are chic, warm you up, cool you down (if dampened), block the sun, and can be worn as an accessory with different outfits. For churches that require your shoulders to be covered, a scarf is ideal. A nice Pashmina can double as a blanket or pillow and as a shawl for the evening. For me, it’s a must have in my carry-on.
As for jewelry, leave the good stuff at home. I know you like to look good and that’s okay. Get a couple of cheaper, nice looking pieces. I leave my diamond wedding ring home and wear a fake one. I travel with one bracelet and one necklace. If something happened to any of those three pieces…I wouldn’t be devastated.
Flip-flops are ideal for questionable showers, the beach, visiting temples, or homes where it’s customary to remove your shoes. They don’t take up much room, either.