When you’re constantly on the go for business, packing becomes just another part of your busy schedule. All the better to come up with a checklist you can use over and over, whether you’re going on a quick 2-day trip or planning a week of meetings abroad.
Plan Ahead
Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can just throw a few items in and run. No one will think less of your improvising, entrepreneurial mind for following a packing list every time you pack. Besides, using a list will help you save valuable time.
TIP: Check off the items you will use for each given trip—this list isn’t meant to be followed exactly, as no two trips are alike. Also, for most trips you can pack all the items you need and remove about half of them. You can pick up many items during your travels if you really need them.
Important Documents & Supplies
International Travel
Passport and visas
Extra passport photos and copy of passport stored in a different bag
Copies of important travel information and documents
Maps, guide books, and phrase books
International calling cards and phone numbers
International drivers’ license, if needed
Electricity converter(s) and adapters
All Travel
Addresses (print out critical contact info. in case of electronics or battery failure)
Health insurance information
Debit and credit cards, cash, 2 personal cheques, and traveller’s cheques if needed
Security pouch (wear under clothing)
Sticky notes and/or small notepad
Reading material
Laptop, mobile phone, and charging equipment (plus flash drives)
Extra batteries
Other equipment (cameras and accessories)
Toiletries & Sundries
Toothbrush, floss, toothpaste
Comb or brush
Deodorant
Razor, shaving gel, shampoo, and soap
Small, shatter-resistant mirror
Nail clippers and tweezers
Sunscreen and lip balm
Female or male-specific hygiene supplies
Antibacterial wipes
Squirt bottle
Small package of laundry detergent, collapsible clothesline or carabineer
1 or 2 inflatable hangers, plus a flat sink stopper
Pain relievers, vitamins, prescription meds, and a first-aid kit
Ear plugs, inflatable pillow, and a thin travel blanket
Alarm clock, watch, and extra batteries
Safety pins and fasteners; sewing kit
Sealable plastic bags
Glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses and fluids, carrying case(s)
Clothing
TIP: The following should be adequate for a week-long trip. Adjust as needed, and note that you’ll be wearing some of these items instead of packing them.
Dressy jacket
Dark (cardigan) sweater
Rainwear and umbrella
Parka or coat
Gloves or mittens
Knitted cap or suncap
3-4 shirts/blouses
2 pairs of trousers or skirts
3-4 pairs of socks
3-4 pairs of undergarments
Swimsuit
Nightwear
Necktie or scarf
1 pair each of dressy shoes and walking shoes (or boots)
1 pair of sandals or flip-flops, depending on season and travel location
Belt
When you plan ahead, you’ll save time and your own sanity besides. Need more travel tips? Let the friendly people at AirFlight Services know your needs ahead of time, and we’ll be ready to pick you up during your next trip.