Regardless of the type of traveller you are, or the type of holiday you embark on, packing an be stressful if you are not organised. Choosing what to take to meet a required luggage weight allowance or to fit into a backpack, can leave some people frustrated.
But with a little bit of research and some planning, deciding what is necessary and what should be left behind can quickly become far more manageable. From packing your trusty vans slip on to the ideal winter jacket, some simple tricks and tips will make life far more straightforward.
A Guide to Packing for an Adventure Holiday
Clothing & Footwear
Clothes and footwear will take up the most space in your luggage. Then key to packing is to make the right choices with a select number of pieces is key.
The first tip is to lay out what you think you might need for the length of trip. Then revise what you think you will need to the essentials only. Don’t think “I might need this”, rather you should make sure everything you pack will be needed.
If you plan to be active in the day, choose clothing made of natural wools and fabrics because these are far less likely to end up whiffy with sweat. You could also plan to change the clothing item next to you skin but wear the next layer a few times in one trip.
You will probably want to change you underwear and socks most days but, again, items made of materials such as merino can be worn more than once.
What you take will also depend on the season. You’ll need fewer items for a summer trip, for example.
Clothes and footwear that you wear i for a few hours in the evening, after you have been active in the day, can be worn repeatedly so you might only need a couple of outfits for a trip of a week in length.
If there will be laundry facilities where you are going, this will allow you to pack fewer clothes because you can wash them.
Weather protection – and other essentials
If you choose to go on an adventure holiday, it is safe to assume that most of your time will likely be spent outside. For this reason, researching your destination’s weather conditions and patterns is crucial to best prepare for what you might face.
Some common essential items for sunny weather will be sun cream, a sun hat and sun glasses. For winter, you will want to ensure you have enough warm clothing, plus gloves and winter headwear.
Will it be wet where you are going on holiday? If so, make sure you pack the right waterproof jacket.
Another essential item might be insect repellent.
Toiletries
You’ll want to pack a few toiletries, although it’s worth thinking about what you might find in your accommodation, as well as remembering you can buy shampoo, deodorant etc when you arrive at your holiday destination.
If you are taking hold luggage you can be a little more relaxed about what you travel with but if you are only taking cabin luggage, you’ll need to comply with carry-on regulations for bottles of fluid, such as moisturiser.
The essentials to pack are a toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, moisturiser, as well as soap, hair products and shaving items.
Travel documents & money
The basic list will include a passport, tickets for transport, plus a means of paying for things, whether local currency or a bank card and travel insurance.
You might also need your driver’s licence if you plan to hire a car.
If you are travelling to a country that requires a Visa, you’ll need to take evidence of this as well.
To prevent potential accidents, ensure they are kept in a protective cover that can keep them away from the elements. If you want to be extra prepared, make a copy of all your documents.
Necessary specialist equipment
Depending on the activities you have planned for your trip, you may be required to take along specialist equipment. This could be skis, mountaineering boots, yoga mat, camping gear, wetsuits or surfboards, to name a few. In many situations, most of these items will be available to hire, but it will depend mainly on what the activity is and your skill level.
Like most things, doing some research before departure will help you avoid any unnecessary stress when travelling with such equipment. If you do choose to take your own stuff with you, double check rules for the modes of transport you plan to use. The chances are you’ll need to pay extra for a sports bag on a flight.
Simple first aid kit
A basic first aid kit could be useful, including the basics like plasters, bandages, anti-septic cream, disinfectant liquid, scissors, pain medication and antihistamines.
Additional items may be necessary if you travel somewhere very hot or cold. But, again, a simple Google search will provide you with the necessary information you need.
Electronic devices & chargers
These days, many travellers will take a mobile phone and a tablet or laptop at the very minimum. Other products might include a camera and Kindle. It might be an overnight train journey or a long-haul flight, but knowing you can easily access something lighthearted and entertaining is often great news.
Don’t forget to pack all the necessary charging cables and battery packs, too, if you know it might be hard to always have access to electricity. For example, a solar battery pack might be a good idea.
Snacks & water
Often something overlooked, making the space for a few extra snacks and a reusable water bottle might end up being a lifesaver. It doesn’t need to get that dramatic to justify packing these goodies, but for extended travel trips or days when the weather is particularly difficult, having something extra to eat and drink will keep you sane.
