We all want to have a stress-free journey—whether abroad or locally. However, bad luck just happens—we either forget some essentials, or we end up packing more than our check-in or hand-carry allowance. Fortunately, with just a little planning and preparation, these can all be prevented. So, here are some travel packing tips to help you enjoy your much-deserved vacation hassle-free.
1. Always start with a packing checklist and pack early
A checklist is a must when planning a trip. This way, you will be able to track items that are important to bring with you. Try to start packing at least two weeks before your trip to give you time for purchases in case you do not have the item needed on hand and also to ensure that all your belongings will fit in your luggage. Think of it as a dry run. There is a saying that goes, “haste makes wastes.” Creating a packing list is a foolproof way to warrant that you will have everything that you need.
2. Roll and vacuum pack
Many travel experts say that rolling is far more superior than folding. Rolling prevents creasing and saves space. In addition to rolling, you may also put your clothes in a vacuum-sealed bag for maximum space-saving.
3. Know your airline’s baggage policy
To avoid unnecessary fees when booking your ticket, it is always wise to check the baggage policy of your airline. Equipped with this knowledge, you can prepare by weighing your luggage, thus preventing any inconveniences and paying unnecessary fees for excess baggage.
4. Carry important belongings with you.
It is a must that all vital documents and items, such as IDs, passport, tickets, gadgets, credit cards, cash, and medications must be with you at all times or in your carry on. You might regret leaving your valuables in your check-in luggage when the airline loses your baggage or if someone steals it.
5. Tweak your luggage
There are cases when someone would mistakenly collect your luggage on the carousel because it looks identical to what they have or vice versa. That will be a horrible and very cumbersome experience. To prevent this from happening, put identifiable marks in your check-in baggage, like a brightly colored ribbon, shoelace, or stickers for easy identification.
6. Follow the 3-1-1 rule
You might be needing a lotion, perfume, or medicines on hand when you travel. These are allowed to be in your carry on provided that it is within the approved regulated amount. Each passenger is allowed to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel size containers 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Typical items that must comply with the 3-1-1 rule are toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, liquid medicines. These should also be placed inside a transparent zip-lock bag.
7. Let your device multitask
In today’s modern world, your phone is now capable of doing everything you need. It has all the features that make your life more comfortable. Let your phone be your calendar, notebook, flashlight, TV, library, camera, document drop, or camera. Heck, your phone is everything you need—you can even make calls on it. If you have that urge to add something to your luggage, check and ask, “Does my phone already has it?”
Remember, always pack the essentials only. And if you are traveling to a less expensive country like Batam, Indonesia, don’t bring so many items with you. Chances are, you will find what you need in your destination—at a cheaper rate.
Holiday Inn is a world-renowned hotel chain, and we pride ourselves on providing the best accommodation at the most affordable rate. If you’re looking for a hotel in Batam, book at Holiday Inn today!
