So you are going on a trip!

Getting ready for a trip is always exciting. There is a ton of anticipation of the fun you’ll have, but it’s a time for planning too. Here are some of our top tips to help!

  • Passports – If you don’t have a passport, apply as soon as possible. If you do, check the expiration date. Many countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond your stay and/or that it has a certain number of blank pages, so think about renewing yours if you’re cutting it close. In the US, it’s possible to renew your passport by mail.
  • Visa requirements – Some countries require visas to enter the country depending on the origin of your passport, so check visa requirements well before your trip. US citizens can check the State Department website for details. Canadian citizens can find entry requirements here.
  • Vaccines – Depending on where you’re traveling, you may need to get travel immunizations. Visit the CDC travel website or the World Health Organization’s Country-specific Reports to see what immunizations are required and recommended for different countries. It may also be a good idea to go to a pharmacy or clinic that specializes in travel vaccines because they can help you uncover potential issues you may not be aware of.
  • Insurance – If your insurance doesn’t cover you and your possessions overseas or there’s a chance your plans may change, consider travel insurance. From health insurance to trip cancellation, there are different types of travel insurance policies that have varying coverage and prices to meet your needs. Travel insurance may not always be necessary, but it’s generally better to be protected.

First aid kit

A small first aid kit is a must for us. While many of these things can be found when traveling, when you’re sick or have hurt yourself, it can be hard to get to a pharmacy in a timely manner.

  • Neosporin or a similar triple antibiotic cream
  • Ibuprofen
  • Bandages
  • Immodium
  • Benedryl or other anti-histamine pills
  • Deet product (if going to an area with Zika)
  • Probiotics
  • Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning)

Packing For your trip!

Make sure you familiarize yourself with the guidelines for the weight, height and limits for luggage. All airlines especially international airlines have different requirments for luggage. 

This Osprey Meridian Wheeled Luggage is a versatile bag that can be wheeled like a roller or carried like a backpack, so it works for whatever your needs are or whatever terrain you’re facing. We love it so much, we own two!

Size, weight, material, and price are just some of the few important things to consider when buying luggage. There’s no perfect answer because everyone needs something different from their choice of suitcase. Websites like Amazon carry great options for travel luggage.

  • Use packing cubes – Packing cubes are great for separating different types of clothing or outfits, and they’re very helpful for organizing a bag of any size.
  • Follow the 3-1-1 rule – You can fly with a quart-sized bag full of 3.4-ounce (100 milliliters) containers of liquids, gels, and creams. Make sure to only use a quart-sized bag (not gallon-sized) and separate it from your carry-on luggage when you go through security.

Carry-On Essentials

Noise canceling headphones
Great noise canceling headphones are necessary for tuning out noise.

Eye mask and ear plugs
A plush eye mask and ear plugs is the best combination we’ve found to help with sleep on a long flight.

E-reader
For those times that you don’t feel like carrying a magazine or dealing with the bulk of a book, it’s Kindle all the way.

Multi-purpose charger
This all-in-one charger works for a variety of tablets, phones, and even cameras.

Resealable plastic bags
Quart-sized bags are great for taking liquids through airport security, but they’re great for other things, too. They can be used to organize cords, batteries, or other small things. They’re also great for packing damp items like bathing suits that may not have dried.