As the holiday season approaches, the anticipation of travel fills the air. However, it is taxing to travel during the holiday season. Particularly when you get the nagging feeling that you might have forgotten something important.
Packing the right essentials can ease anxiety and ensure a smooth journey. Knowing what goes into the suitcase and what remains behind makes all the difference.
So, whether you are visiting your family for Thanksgiving dinner or eloping with your partner to an exotic island for the end-of-year retreat, here is a list of five must-have travel essentials for a smooth holiday trip.
1. Travel Documents.
Imagine rushing to the airport only to find you left your passport in your bedside drawer. You’ll have to miss your flight and suffer through all the inconveniences caused- a nightmare! So, ensure you have all your travel documents beforehand.
Security scrutiny is increased during the holiday season. Therefore, for a hassle-free airport experience, ensure you have relevant identification documents. Also, ensure you have your boarding pass and updated passport. Some countries reject passports that are less than six months old.
If your visiting country requires a visa, apply for one ahead of time. Also, make sure you have suitable travel insurance. It can cover delayed flights, missing luggage, or medical emergencies while you are away.
2. Travel Money.
Travel money lets you cover expenses such as meals, accommodation, and transportation. It also helps you manage miscellaneous costs that may arise during your travel. You can navigate the new town with sufficient funds and even buy gifts for your friends and family.
It is advisable to have enough cash in your debit and credit cards. Keep one card in a safe spot as an emergency backup. Also, ensure you have sufficient money in hand. Additionally, depending on the country you visit, it’s better to have local currency for financial flexibility.
3. Appropriate clothing.
Weather conditions vary during the holiday seasons. If you are in for a white Christmas, pack heavy attire to keep you warm during your stay. Alternatively, light wear and swimsuits are appropriate for a holiday in the tropics.
If you are travelling for a long time, load your suitcase with clothes and shoes that complement each other. When you pack versatile clothing items, you can layer them, mix and match, and create flexibility and style.
Also, if you visit temples and holy places, it’s best to carry a scarf for modesty. Following the cultural norms of the places you visit shows respect for the local culture.
4. Essential Gadgets.
For seamless holiday travel, you’ll need your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and camera. Remember to pack your air pods, chargers, and power banks to help your gadgets stay powered for a long time.
You need your gadgets to stay connected with the family you’ve left behind as you travel. They also come in handy when you need entertainment, such as online games, music, and movies. Furthermore, GPS helps you find your way in new cities and towns.
Remember to pack your electronic equipment well to avoid damage. It is highly recommended that you carry them in your carry-on bag rather than loading them into your suitcase with everything else.
5. Medication.
Travelling to different climates and new environments can make you more susceptible to illnesses. Medication like antihistamines for allergies, painkillers, and indigestion pills can ease discomfort and address rising health issues.
If you have pre-existing conditions and ailments, ensure you have sufficient prescribed medication to last through the trip. Don’t forget your inhaler if you are asthmatic or epinephrine pens if you are severely allergic.
Travelling can disrupt your regular routine. Including your sleeping schedule and eating habits can directly affect your health. Having necessary medications on hand can help you tackle ailments that arise during the trip and manage pre-existing ailments.
The Takeaway.
Travelling during the holiday becomes easier when you know what travel items to bring. The list above entails items that will help you navigate any holiday destination. They ease travelling anxiety and empower you to enjoy the festive season with your friends and family. Helping you focus on the things that genuinely matter!! Happy Holidays! ♥
Did we miss anything? What are your must-have holiday travel essentials? Share in the comment below.
Disclaimer: This post was originally published on my LinkedIn page.
Mourine Warui is a media and communication expert and seasoned writer. Her goal is to empower and offer solutions to everyday girl’s problems while provoking candid and authentic conversations. Other goals are to provide inspiration and entertainment to readers through creative, thought-provoking and edgy stories.
