Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet
Check the weather at your destination.
Note how many days/nights you will stay: This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.
Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice!)
Take items you can grab at your destination off the list: If you’re traveling light or with just a carry-on, this is crucial for saving space.Most hotels provide toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, so why pack them? Even if you’re picky or not staying at a hotel, drugstores are usually readily available.
Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.
Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight.
Choose the right luggage: Different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.
When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack
Gather your most important items first: Start gathering all travel documents like your passport, ID, boarding passes, and hotel reservations. Don’t forget items you can’t replace on the go, such as your wallet, credit cards, camera, and cell phone.
Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking: Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to maximize outfit options. Did you know that 3 bottoms, 4 tops, and 2 outer layers can create up to 24 outfits? Simplify your wardrobe to avoid overpacking.
PUT STUFF BACK!
After laying everything out, carefully evaluate the length of your trip. You’ll likely find items you can leave behind to pack lighter. Nobody wants to pay extra baggage fees or carry unnecessary clothes!
Pack it up. Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.
Only check off items as you pack them into your bag, and LEAVE THEM THERE! If it’s not ready to be packed, DON’T check it off! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…
(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)
If you’re forgetful, print a separate checklist of essentials and tape it to your door for a final review before leaving.
Safeguard your belongings:
- Liquids: Seal toiletries in a plastic bag or container to prevent leaks.
- Shoes: Stuff them with small items like socks or belts.
- Clothes: Pack shoes separately or cover them to prevent stains, and toss in a dryer sheet for freshness.
- Stains: Pack a stain remover pen or wipes for emergencies.
Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person: Leave irreplaceable items at home if possible. If you must travel with valuables like expensive jewelry or crucial documents, keep them on your person at all times. Don’t risk checking them in your luggage – if it gets lost or stolen, those items are gone for good.
Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.
Remember the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-ons:
3: Containers must be 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.
1: All liquids must fit in one clear quart-sized bag.
1: Each passenger is allowed one bag.
For quicker security checks, place this bag separately in the screening bin.
Before Leaving the House
In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.
Remember to:
Pre-Trip Checklist:
Tech & Prep:
- Download travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
- Notify your credit card companies if traveling internationally.
- Set up an eSIM for seamless connectivity.
- Set an email auto-responder if needed.
Home Tasks:
- Take out the trash.
- Empty the washing machine and dishwasher.
- Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
- Unplug electronics
- Turn off all lights and electronics.
- Set lighting timers (if you have them).
- Water your plants.
Security:
- Close and lock all doors and windows.
- Pull all the curtains.
- Set your alarm system (if you have one).
With Gohub and this checklist, you’re ready to embark on your next international adventure with confidence!
