When traveling, it’s very easy to forget to pack essentials in the excitement of it all. Here are a few must-haves you should pack for your next vacation.
Formal Clothes
Most vacation spots will require you to bring at least one formal outfit for night outs or formal dinners. For women, this could mean a nice dress or even a ball gown. Men should pack a collared, button-up shirt and tie with trousers as well as dress shoes. For beach vacation spots, pack a nice sundress and sandals along with some light jewelry.
Close-Toed Shoes and Flip Flops
While you can show up to casual restaurants wearing flip-flops, keep in mind that some places do not appreciate shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops, especially higher-end restaurants. You will also need a formal pair of close-toed shoes if you plan on visiting certain places. If you participate in activities like zip-lining and horseback riding, you will need a pair of comfortable sneakers too.
Bring Sunscreen and After-Sun Lotion
Remember to carry at least one bottle of sunscreen per person at your party. Whether you’ll be spending the day laying on the beach or by the pool, you’ll go use more sunscreen than you can imagine. Always apply sunscreen liberally and often – especially if you are spending time somewhere sun-soaked like the Caribbean.
Pack Essential Medications
There’s nothing worse than getting sick on vacation, so always pack a small first aid-style kit full of medications like pain relievers, upset stomach medication, anti-diarrhea, Benadryl as well as a motion sickness medication. If you’re cruising somewhere, you can also find Sea-Bands that help combat motion sickness when you wear them on your wrist. While you will find most of these things at your destination too, they can be quite expensive compared to what you’d pay at home.
Extra Tipping Cash
When taking a tour or going on an excursion, it is always customary to tip your tour guides, bus drivers, and others involved. Remember to bring cash so that you aren’t left feeling bad when the tour ends and the tour guide makes a speech about how appreciated the tip is.
