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Packing is not a matter of simply throwing necessities into a bag. Just as important as what you pack is how you pack. With that in mind, here are some general packing tips:
- To avoid last-minute anxiety, make a thorough packing list before traveling.
- Avoid over-packing. Do not bring things just because they might come in handy.
- Pack mix-and-match clothes to help minimize baggage and yet enjoy variety.
- Take things that dry quickly, like synthetic fabrics and lightweight cotton.
- Iron before packing and then roll – don’t fold – clothes.
For bulky items like sweaters, stuff the rolled garment toward the foot of a pair of pantyhose – it makes a tight container that takes up less space.
Leave dry–cleaned items in their plastic bags to help avoid wrinkles.
- Hang clothes immediately after check-in to prevent wrinkling. If clothes do wrinkle, hang them in the bathroom while taking a hot shower to steam them smooth.
- Consider bringing "disposable" clothing, such as older socks, underwear, T-shirts, and even old shoes. Before departing, donate them or throw them out to make room for souvenirs.
- Layering is a great way to make a wardrobe more versatile and accommodate changing weather.
- Place anything that could ruin clothes, such as liquid make-up, shampoo, and toothpaste, into a sealed plastic bag.
- Pack a small lint brush.
- Take along your eyeglass prescription in case you lose or break your glasses. Consider buying glasses that darken in the sun to eliminate the need for sunglasses.
- If you plan to take along items such as an electric razor or hair drier to a foreign country, check with your hotel to see if you'll need an adapter.
- Even the lightest traveler should bring a day bag. A small backpack can hold your umbrella, camera, book, souvenirs, and whatever else you want to carry while you go exploring.
- A security pouch is essential. Worn concealed under clothing, it is the safest place to keep money, travelers’ checks, passport, and other valuables.
- Don’t forget a small "first aid kit" of bare necessities: aspirin, antibiotic cream, cotton swabs, anti–diarrheal, and cold medications.
- A small, inflatable pillow is indispensable for avoiding a sore neck on a long overnight flight or train ride.
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