How to Pack 🧳
Adventurers! Packing for a trip can sometimes feel like you're trying to solve a complex puzzle. What do you bring? How much is too much? No worries, we've got you covered with some packing tips for every type of getaway!
In our early days of traveling, our motto was "better safe than sorry." Yes, that meant just about everything ended up in our suitcases. Andrew even joked whether we were planning to pack the kitchen sink too! Over time, as we journeyed more as a couple, we began to realize that less is often more. At the end of each trip, we'd reflect on all the things we packed but never used, which only added to our load and hassle. We slowly slimmed down what we packed for the next trip.
Then, we welcomed our daughters into the world, and wow, did our packing strategy have to adapt! Starting from square one with baby gear felt like a whole new ballgame. I would panic before hand and went back to “better safe than sorry” and realized pretty quickly the same philosophy that we had adapted for us traveling as a couple applied as a family. Here we are several years later, having mastered the art of traveling as a family of four with just two carry-on suitcases and a backpack each!
Types of Packing
Packing smart is all about adjusting to the kind of trip you’re planning. Here's a handy guide to help you pack just right for your next family adventure:
🟣 Purple: Luxury Cruises, Private Guided Tours
Packing Style: Go for fashion with high-end luggage sets.
What to Bring: Dress up for dinner with formal wear and keep daytime outings stylish with smart casual outfits. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for those on-shore adventures. Make sure all your travel documents are in order, pack your favorite toiletries, and maybe a beloved book or a travel journal to capture those special moments.
Top Tip: Focus on style paired with comfort, knowing most necessities will be provided. It’s all about those personal touches that elevate your travel experience.
🔵 Blue: Cultural City Breaks, Organized Group Tours
Packing Style: Smart and compact using medium-sized suitcases or versatile travel backpacks.
What to Bring: Bring clothes that are adaptable to different cultures and climates, comfortable shoes for exploring, essential toiletries, and your camera or smartphone to capture every moment. Consider packing extra batteries or power banks, and maybe some handy language guides or maps.
Top Tip: Be prepared but flexible, ready to dive into both planned activities and spontaneous discoveries.
🟢 Green: Outdoor Tours, Adventure Parks
Packing Style: Keep it practical with durable backpacks or versatile suitcases.
What to Bring: Gear up with activity-specific clothing, all-weather items, and sturdy footwear. Don’t forget the essentials for safety, practical accessories, and of course, a camera to capture the wild moments!
Top Tip: Pack to adapt both to your planned adventures and the spontaneous ones that may arise.
🟡 Yellow: Road Trips, Small Group Adventure Tours
Packing Style: Casual and adaptable using backpacks or duffle bags.
What to Bring: Opt for layered outfits to handle changing climates, a basic first aid kit, plenty of snacks for the road, and your trusty maps or GPS. Mix in some leisure and active wear, ready for whatever the day brings.
Top Tip: Strike a balance between being prepared and embracing spontaneity. Comfort and readiness are your best travel buddies.
🟠 Orange: Backpacking Trips, Self-Planned Trekking
Packing Style: Embrace minimalism with lightweight backpacks featuring smart compartments.
What to Bring: Choose multi-functional clothing, pack light sleeping gear and portable cooking equipment, essential toiletries, reliable hiking boots, and a comprehensive survival kit.
Top Tip: Packing is about being self-sufficient and ready for diverse terrains and experiences.
🔴 Red: Expedition Cruising, Remote Wilderness Adventures
Packing Style: Focus on gear that's all about functionality.
What to Bring: Equip yourself with specialized attire for extreme conditions, including thermal and waterproof layers, UV protection, and robust navigation and emergency tools. Don’t skimp on high-calorie foods or a well-stocked medical kit.
Top Tip: Your packing strategy is crucial: prioritize safety, survival, and independence in the wild.