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Note To Self: Packing for Travel

Updated: Under: life Tags: #travel

I’m no packing guru, I don’t travel often and most/all of the times I do it’s for work. I went on a work trip recently. While staying in my hotel room I was thinking of my questionable packing decisions.

In the lists below any unchecked item is something I missed, or opted out

Packing “Philosophy”

I don’t like having a lot of stuff. My goal was to pack less and take everything I need in one carry-on luggage for a week-long trip.

I saw a video a year back by this YouTuber which I was reminded of (shame I didn’t re-watch it until now)

I lack style unlike Rajiv in the video, but I think the concepts do apply.

You should just watch Rajiv's video,
What I've put down on this post is what I missed.

Toiletries

Essentially, whatever you use regularly you should take, I made the mistake of thinking “the shampoo in the hotel is fine”, my hair disagreed. I missed my skin care routine and it was not fun.

  • Toothpaste
  • Lip balm
  • Moisturiser lotion
  • Toothbrush
  • Laundry detergent
  • Cologne
  • Shampoo
  • Face Wash

Clothes

I don’t own much clothes, and my nonexistent styling means I pair my jeans (I have exactly two of the same) with some t-shirts.

  • Cotton Tees
  • Comfy shorts x1
  • Jeans x2
  • Fancy Shirt x1 (Doubles as layer)
  • Outdoor shorts x1
  • Blazer
  • Fancy pants
  • Fancy shoes

I’m often prepared to wash my clothes at the hotel, for which I do take some laundry detergent. But I was a bit worried this time If I’d be able to dry them off.

I used to pack a suite (at least use blazer with jeans on the plane) that I do miss.

Accessories

Shoes

I took some Adidias Stan Smith’s, they are not comfortable for long walks, I wish I packed something else. With the omission of a suite I did leave my fancy shoes as well.

Miscellaneous

Random nice to haves. I missed my flip flops.

  • Comfy flip flops
  • Tote bag
  • Small water bottle

Packing for weather

I messed this up, got a bit sick as it’s cold. I packed just a denim t-shirt (not thick) this was not enough. I need to get a jacket next time.

Luggage

This is important, I only took carry on luggage this time, I should have taken a foldable bag for random shopping hauls.

  • Backpack
    • Toiletries bag
  • Carry on luggage
  • Foldable bag
  • Checked in luggage

Conclusion

In summary, think a bit more before packing!

  • I made the write decision not to wash and dry clothes, if it’s for leisure that will work but not for business.
  • Make sure you pack for the weather.
  • Versatile parings.
  • I only took one carry on luggage, Should have taken a just in case bag which I could used to pack gifts and a lot of coffee beans.

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