While traveling is supposed to be fun and exciting, we cannot deny the fact that there are some issues that could pop up along the way. For us girls, one common issue on the list is the baggage. For girls like me who have been told many times that I carry my closet (sometimes my room) when traveling, this can be a real challenge. Oftentimes, I get so stressed a few days prior the trip because of thoughts on what to bring, what to left behind, how many pieces of this and that to bring and so on. Having a mom that is acting as a reminder of everything I might need on the trip isn’t helping with my baggage woes at all.
But traveling on a budget has gradually taught me how to pack light and bring only the things that I will surely need and use. To minimize baggage costs and avoid muscle pain caused by carrying heavy bags, here are some tips you may want to consider:
- Bring toiletries (shampoo, lotion, etc) in small bottles
Bringing shampoos and conditioners in sachet can indeed save luggage space but what are you going to do if you can’t use the entire content of one sachet? Throw or leave them behind? Not for the frugal one. Bringing the left over, on the other hand, can be messy. So instead of sachets, I recommend using small bottles. Most shampoos, conditioners and lotions are available in small bottles or containers. You do not need to buy such items each time you travel. Buy once and refill the bottles instead of throwing them away when the content ran out.
- Consider the destination and activities when deciding what clothes and shoes to bring
When your travel activities include zip line rides, diving, snorkeling, hiking and the likes, then sky-high stilettos and makeup train case are not really necessary. If you are to spend a week in an island, then load up on swimsuits, sun dresses and similar however if you intend to party at night or jog in the beach, then toss a few items for that activities in your luggage. Having a piece of clothing or accessory with multiple uses or can be easily paired with other items is a plus too.
- Bring comfortable shoes
Traveling usually calls for walking... walking and walking. Thus snugly-fit, comfortable and durable pair of shoes is really necessary.
- Medicine, vitamins and other supplementsGetting sick when you are away from home is worse and worst if you haven’t brought any medicine to make you feel better. Stomach upsets and dizziness are common health issues when traveling so better bring medicines to combat those. Anti-allergy medicines should not be taken for granted if you are prone to getting allergies. Understand that when you travel, each day is always loaded with activities and you might not be getting enough sleep and rest. Taking vitamins and other supplements in addition to eating right can give you more energy to do more.
While enjoying wherever part of the world you are, safety is of course, still the number one priority. Keep an eye on your valuables and also to those who are after your valuables. Make sure to lock the room or rented house before leaving. Also if you are the one driving, follow traffic rules and drive responsibly to avoid any untoward incidents.
Do you love traveling? Feel free to share your travel essentials and tips in the comment section below...
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