Get Ready for Your Next Vacation: Pack the Essentials and Tie Up Loose Ends

Planning your next vacation can be exciting, but it’s also easy to forget to pack things you need or leave loose ends that prevent you from having a smooth and successful trip. To avoid this common problem, make sure you’re prepared.

If you think of these steps as your checklist, then it’s easier to stay organized and stress-free during your trip.

Before you leave, make a list of what you’ll need while on vacation, including all your travel documents. Be sure to include clothes, toiletries, tech accessories, and other essentials that are must-haves during your trip. If it’s something you’re likely to forget about (like beach sandals or lotion), add it to your checklist. Leaving room in your suitcase for souvenirs from your trip is OK—just make sure you don’t exceed airline weight limits.

Even if you’re only going away for a few days, it’s important to stay organized while packing. Keep track of any medication you’ll need to take with you so that it doesn’t get lost in your suitcase or luggage. Also be sure to have an extra charger handy so that your phone battery won’t die. When possible, avoid packing too many pairs of shoes since they can take up a lot of space in your luggage.

Whether you’re going on a hike or taking a cruise, it’s important to remember to pack essential items such as first-aid kits, hiking sticks, rain gear and water. You should also prepare for emergencies by having contact information readily available in case something happens to you or your family during your trip. In addition, if there are any friends or family members who might be traveling with you—especially children—make sure everyone has health insurance and has been vaccinated before embarking on your vacation.

When you’re going away on vacation, it’s important to tell your family and friends when you will be back. It might seem unnecessary to let people know where you are going, but if something happens while you are gone, having their contact information will help them be able to find a way to get in touch with you. Don’t forget about your pets! If they will be staying at home alone during your trip, make sure someone is stopping by to check on them every day or two.

Airports work on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure you’re in line early, because if you’re flying during peak hours, you could spend some time waiting around. If you want to speed up your check-in process, consider flying with a preferred airline. Many offer premium check-in services where they handle your luggage and seat assignments so that all you have to do is show up and board.

Carrying on your luggage is a necessity if you want to keep from paying baggage fees. However, keep in mind that security restrictions limit passengers to liquids of 3.4 oz (100ml) or less. Most toiletries, including shampoo, deodorant, makeup and lotion, fall under these restrictions; liquids in containers larger than 3.4 oz (100ml) must be placed in checked luggage.

A large part of going on vacation is making sure you have fun. It’s important to make time to sightsee, relax, and hang out with friends or family. If you keep in mind that your vacation is a break from daily life, it can be much easier to enjoy yourself. Be careful not to worry about what’s going on at home while you’re gone. Try not to check email or phone messages too often—turn off your cell phone if possible!