Winter Vacation Packing Checklist
Pack it up, pack it in, let the winter break travelling begin! If you are in the lucky lot of people getting out of dodge during the impending hiatus from school, this is your friendly reminder to get it together and start preparing for your adventure. Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes or bask in the sunshine, there is nothing more important than making sure you have a properly stuffed suitcase that contains all of the must-have necessities. Many people find this process daunting, the overwhelming pressure of packing for this particular vacation compounded by the fact that it’s riding on the heels of an already stressful time of year. But getting ahead of a frenzied, last-minute, bag cramming job can really spare you a world of anxiety-induced, poor packing choices and ensure that you will sail smoothly into the headwinds of your itinerary.
Make Your List, Check It Twice
Unless you are a young bachelor or a unicorn, you will likely need more than one cute little carry-on bag for your trip. Multiply this reality by a million for every family member you’ll have in tow and the math might blow your mind. Family traveling should have some sort of annual awards ceremony in recognition of the near impossibility of packing perfectly for a vacation. But alas, there is no trophy honoring the stealth skills displayed when accomplishing this task. Your reward for conquering the unconquerable will present in the form of a sleeping baby whose lovie you remembered, a significant other who will not have to share your toothbrush, and a teenager who will maintain his costly smile because you grabbed his retainer off the nightstand. Vacations are a treat and if you can trudge through the chore of getting organized, packed and out the door, they are well worth the effort required. So for all you last minute travelers out there that need a little nudge, start dusting off the Tumi and get to packing.
The Carry-On
Documents: passports, car rental agreements and more. Make sure you have all the required paperwork for departure and arrival at your destination.
Medication: be certain you have all of the necessities like prescriptions, extra contact lenses, etc. in case your flight has an unexpected layover or your checked bags get lost.
Snacks: chips, granola bars, and gum. Pack easy grab-and-go food so that you have enough sustenance to get you through air travel or road trips.
Entertainment: a book, deck of cards, surprise fun for restless kiddos like a brand new Pockimal in a Pockimal backpack! Travel time flies a lot faster with distractions.
Charging devices: nothing screams catastrophe louder than a dead phone or laptop. Bring your power chords so you can stay connected as you navigate your way.
The Suitcase
Outfits: bring the right wardrobe for all occasions. Preplan for fancy dinners, casual outings, and workouts so that you have enough ensembles to get you through.
Extras: pack additional underwear, extra tops, and easy layering pieces so you are equipped for any fashion emergencies.
Comfortable shoes: don’t spend day two of your vacation bemoaning your blisters. New shoes are fun but functioning feet are essential.
Gear: pack ski items, snorkeling sets or any other accessories you will need for your adventure so that you aren’t stuck shopping around and overpaying upon arrival.
Extra duffle bag: every vacation comes with a few unforeseen purchases. Pack a small, fold-up duffle bag so that you can easily transport souvenirs and other collectibles home.