What Kind of Packer are You?

The Perils of Packing

So, what kind of packer are you? Some travelers pack several weeks worth of clothes in their bag for a weekend trip. Others pack lightly and end up forgetting those things that are most important. I used to be a terrible packer. Boy could I over pack. Clothing was only half the story. I would also bring a hefty stack of guidebooks, maps; a pile of magazines; books; two cameras, including lenses, headphones; iPad; cell phone; power cords; foreign outlet adapters; and the list goes on and on. I finally have this packing thing worked out. I'm still a far cry away from being "just a carry on" traveler but I would define myself as a "savvy" packer. Print the packing list below to help you on your next travels.

Packing List

10 Weeks Prior  Finalize vacation  Buy travel insurance  Book flights/airport transfers  Confirm travel document requirements  Determine any neccessary vaccinations  Get details information on vacation, dress code  Get information on baggage allowance 6 Weeks Prior  Complete pre-registration  Reserve specialty dining  Reserve excursions  Reserve spa appointments  Reserve onboard/land programs  Reserve onboard/land childcare & activities  Arrrange house care and pet care  Arrange childcare (if traveling without children) Arrange mail delivery 3 Weeks Prior  Make appointment for personal care  Review all travel documents  Shop for travel necessities 1 Week Prior  Make 2 copies of passport (leave one at home)  Check airline policy  Print/order luggage tags  Buy extra media cards/batteries  Get cash/travelers checks  Leave trip information with family/friends  Confirm house care  Confirm at home childcare (if needed)  Stop home deliveries  Check phone carrier for international service  Refill prescriptions 2 Days Before  Review & confirm vacation information  Review & confirm flight information  Carry-on 3-1-1: 3.4 oz or less, 1 qt bag, pp  Meet with house sitter & childcare provider  Contact credit card company

Day Prior  Drop off pet at pet care  Clear refrigerator of perishables  Take out trash  Return any borrowed items with fees  Pay last minute bills  Set light timer  Inform family/friends/neighbors  Finalize packing  Put on luggage tags Travel Essentials  Airline tickets  Cruise/land documents  Travel Insurance information  Passport/Visa  Vaccination certificate (if required)  Driver's license  Auto insurance  Health Insurance  Copy of medical insurance (if needed)  Travel Guide  Camera, media/memory card, charger  Underwater camera  Camcorder & charger  Portable DVD Player & Charger  iPod/MP3, Tablet & Charger  Earphones  Extra batteries  Converter/adapter  Prescription  First aid kit