If you’re a traveler who becomes overwhelmed with the thought of preparing a packing list for summer vacation, we’ve got you covered. With all things considered, including different sanitizer options, space savers, and items that can be used for several purposes, here’s a thorough list of what will take your packing list to the next level, compared to items best left at home.
Bring tissues and sanitizing spray — not disinfectant wipes
Bring a reusable water bottle — not disposable plastic
Summer vacation prep is the perfect opportunity to purchase a reusable water bottle. Not only is a reusable water bottle better for the environment than disposable plastic bottles, but you’ll also save on cash in the long run. If you’re flying, you’ll need to make sure your reusable container is empty before going through TSA security checkpoints, since only a few ounces of liquid are allowed, but you’ll be able to refill your water bottle before you get on the plane. Pick a bottle that includes a filter for crystal-clear refills at drinking fountains.
Bring a headphone splitter — not speakers
Bluetooth speakers are wonderful for projecting dynamic sound in enclosed spaces, but summer getaways are occasions for enjoying public spaces and the outdoors — less than ideal places to turn up personal tunes. If you’re planning on soaking up the shoreline sunshine this summer, consider privately sharing music and streamed content using a headphone splitter in place of external speakers. For the ultra tech-savvy traveler, try a Bluetooth splitter for wireless sharing capabilities.
Bring resealable bags — not dry bags or totes
There’s nothing like the multifunctionality of good ol' resealable plastic storage bags. From keeping electronics dry to protecting packed goods from liquid spills, all the way to organizing snacks, games, and cords, reusable bags of various sizes are invaluable for summer vacays — unlike the bulkiness and limited uses of dry bags and collapsible totes. Bonus bag hack: When flying on a plane without screens, put your phone into a small resealable bag, and poke a hole at the bottom to attach wired headphones. Hang and secure the baggie using the tray latch, and enjoy your offline entertainment en route to summer fun!
Bring mini bottles — not full size
Forget full-sized containers, and toss miniature bottles and tubes into your luggage instead. Whether you’re driving, flying, or floating to your summer destination, there’s little need to include entire bottles of precious products, some of which may be too expensive to risk losing or ruining. Instead, use travel-sized bottles, along with improvised items, such as contact lens cases and pill organizers, to safely store creams and liquids. This trick is sure to save space inside your packed bags, reduce the risk of major spills, and guarantee you have the toiletries you need.
Bring a rubbish container, as opposed to being empty-handed
Why wait for road trip rest stops and occasional trash collections during flights when you can tidy up anytime? Whether you choose to use a collapsible container, small tote, or another packable contraption, bringing along reliable storage for trash, rather than having nothing at all, goes a long way while in transit to your temporary summer home. Ensure the container you choose is able to be sealed or closed tightly so that messes are minimized, controlling the rubbish as the good times roll.
Bring ponchos — not umbrellas
Though umbrellas are useful and collapsible, they often add an unnecessary amount of weight and bulk to the bags full of other summer vacation essentials. In lieu of an umbrella, include foldable ponchos in your luggage. Ponchos are easy to carry, lightweight, and provide adequate protection from summer showers. Keep these useful waterproof cloaks with items you plan to carry daily so that you’re never left out in the rain.
