How To Pack Part 3: Packing Your Check-In Bag

         
When it comes to packing, you don't want to over do it and end up with unnecessary things. Since I'm going to a very hot part of the world I'm making sure I have a few pairs of shorts, a pair of capris, one pair of jeggings (just in case there is a cooler day), and thin cotton pants. I'm also bringing leggings because no matter what climate- they're a great item to have. Also you should make sure you have both dressy and casual clothes; You never know when you'll need to dress up.
           
          Packing clothes that you wear often sounds like a given, but sometimes it's tempting to bring new items or old ones you haven't gotten much use out of. If you think "Oh yea I'll finally wear this", there's a good chance you won't. The same thing goes for your jewelry and shoes as well.

*CUTE-TIP: Pre-planning your outfits is a great trick to packing. When you're picking tops to pack think "What can I wear with this?" That way you have outfits to wear, rather than loads of separates.*


           For shoes, packing too many will add weight to your luggage so choose your most versatile ones. I'm bringing my gold U-sandals, which will work for dressier outfits, and my new black peep toe flats which can be dressed up or down. Since there will be a lot of walking on my trip I'm bringing a pair of flip flops and a pair of toms, I'm not packing them in my check-in bag though. (Find out where in Parts 4 & 5) 

           Now when it comes to packing underwear you need to think whether or not you will be able to do laundry. If you won't be able to, then pack an underwear for each day and add a few more (just in case). If you know you will be able to do laundry, then pack underwear for half the number of days you will be away.

           When it comes to packing bras you don't need as many; So pack a few and make sure you throw in some strapless ones as well! Maybe even a bandeau or two. Also pack one or two pairs of socks, just in case it's cold at night time or if you are bringing sneakers.

           I recommend packing one or two cardigans that are neutral colors to go with most of your outfits. It all depends on where you'll be for your vacation, but bringing a couple of basic cardigans will keep you warm on a cooler night. I also always pack a sweatshirt, it's usually cold inside the plane, and because they're sooo comfy they're wonderful to travel in.

           Now don't forget to pack your headbands, hair ties and hair clips! When it's hot you want to be able to put your hair up and not have it all over your face!
           

          Another necessity you might need is.... Medicine. The worst thing that can happen to you while on vacation is to get sick. But if you do, you want to be prepared! It's always good to bring Tylenol or Advil, for headaches or other pains. And if your "Time of the Month" falls during your trip, bring some Midol or Pamprin to get rid of those cramps ASAP. (Which reminds me ALWAYS ALWAYS pack pads or tampons, for yourself or a fellow traveler, they can come in handy!) 

          If you're prone to nausea- then bringing Gravol is a good idea! It's also smart to bring Benadryl with you just in case you get some sort of an allergic reaction. Speaking of medicine- if you're traveling to a third world country visit your doctor a month before the trip; That way you can see if there are any shots or medications you need to take, and you have enough time to do so.
           

          When vacationing in a hot area, there are two main things you need to protect yourself from: the sun & mosquitoes. So make sure you bring sunblock, sunglasses, a hat and bug repellent. (Check out our guest blogger Miriam's post on how to Beat the Heat!). Unfortunately, I am allergic to sunscreen so I can't really protect myself. I'm currently on the search for one that I can use, once I find out I'll let you all know.

           This summer on TV there have been commercials promoting the new Clip-on Bug Repellent by OFF! that lasts up to 11hrs; I bought one along with a pack of 2 refills which will cost you about $18. I am also bringing spray on bug repellent, AfterBite, calamine lotion and some sort of bug repellent wire. Hopefully all of this works because I went out last night and got eaten alive by those damned things!

           Now that you've got everything packed in your check-in bag, you can pack your hand luggage. Stay tuned for Parts 4 and 5 in the How to Pack When Traveling Abroad Series.