Going away for most trips is exciting, especially if it’s a longer one than usual. Whether you’re going to see family who lives far away or you’re lucky enough to be sent abroad for work, there are so many reasons you may find yourself embarking on a longer-than-normal trip.
However, it can also be stressful as you try to decide what to pack and consider what you may need when you’re there. It can often be too easy to overpack as you think about all the possibilities, no matter how unlikely they may be.
While overpacking can give you that feeling of being covered no matter what, it can also be a burden, as you are left to lug around a bigger bag or suitcase than you need for those “just in case” items.
There are really only a few essentials for a long trip, though; everything else is just a bonus. Here are a few.
Your laptop
While you might not need to take your laptop for a weekend away or a short trip somewhere, when going away for a while, it can really be a benefit to you.
This is even more the case for those that work remotely and often need to be online in just a moment’s notice. Many devices, like tablets and a 15 inch laptop, are perfect for packing in a small bag and giving you peace of mind that you will be able to work if need be.
Your laptop can also work as a great way to keep in touch with friends and family if you are really going to be away for a while.
Weather appropriate clothing only
Why is it human nature to pack for all weather outcomes? Even if you’re heading to a sunny location, it’s natural to want to pack a jacket or coat just in case.
Clothing items like these will rarely be needed if you’re heading for a warmer location and are just not worth the extra weight. Packing shorts and a classic Anime t-shirt for your summer trip is a good idea; it will keep you stylish and comfortable.
Unless you are going for a while and need to pack for multiple climates, it’s safe to just pack what you need when it comes to your clothing choices. Trusting mother nature and not packing shorts and a t-shirt for a trip to Oslo in winter is the best thing you can do in this case.
A good pair of shoes
Shoes are not the easiest thing to pack, so picking your best ones and sticking with them is important.
Depending on how long you’re going for, it’s likely that you will only have one pair of shoes for a while. Picking the best options for you and making sure they are comfortable but can suit different environments, like an office, can make a big difference.
Though you can pack more shoes, it’s much easier to just stick with the ones you have on your feet when traveling.
Packing can be one of the most annoying parts of travel, but it doesn’t have to be. When you only pack what you need, even more so on a long trip, you make the whole process much simpler for yourself.
