Summer is finally here, and we’ve already started packing for all the amazing adventures we’re going to be having. It’s easy to forget things, or not even know you needed them until you’re in a different country. Here is a list of HC at UVic’s travel essentials for the summer, no matter where you’re going!
The Basics
Don’t be that person who forgets their passport. Make sure you keep it with your wallet, and check to make sure you have all the cards and cash you might need before you leave. A small cross-body bag is a great way to keep all of your essentials in check, and it makes exploring much easier since you won’t have your hands full with a giant tote. It’s also harder to pickpocket than a backpack and is great in an airport when you need to repeatedly take out your passport and wallet.
Airport Drama
Something you can never leave for a trip without is a tag for your luggage. Nobody wants to deal with a lost bag, especially if you never get it back. You might have your whole life in that bag, so keep it safe by tying on a unique tag with your address and number that will make your luggage identifiable. Always keep at least a change of clothes with you in your carry-on in case your checked luggage gets lost: something like a pair of leggings, a thin t-shirt, underclothes, and socks. It’s also a good idea to include a bit of an ‘emergency kit,’ with a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, Advil, moisturizer, and anything else you might need in the first few days of your trip. Airports can be super-hot, while planes can get super cold, so make sure you layer up. It’s also useful to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, like flats or sandals. A good pair of flip flops could come in handy later in your trip if you’ll be lounging around a pool, hanging out at the beach, or using public showers. One of the most important things to remember is an empty water bottle. You can’t bring liquids through security, but it’s easy to fill it up afterwards and stay hydrated while you’re waiting and flying.
Flying High
Depending on how long your flight is, you might want to come prepared. Always bring a book or two. Magazines are always fun to flip through while you’re watching a movie. Don’t forget your favorite pair of headphones, your laptop, and a USB full of your favorite movies to keep yourself entertained. On that note – don’t forget your chargers! It’s also a great idea to have a notebook with you so that you can journal during your trip. You’ll hopefully be making amazing memories you’ll want to look back on in the future. A neck pillow is a great thing to have on a long flight, especially the ones that can fold into a normal square pillow. A pack of gum is essential for some people as well, and a pair of sunglasses is great if you’re trying to sleep on a bright plane. You’ll probably already be packing them anyway, so just make sure to put them in your carry-on.
Touch Ups
Planes can be brutal and drying for your skin, so it’s always a good idea to fly make up free. It might be very hot where you’re going, so there are a few products you definitely don’t want to forget at home that will help you brave the summer sun. Include a small pack of makeup wipes so that you can put everything else over a clean face. Anti-bacterial wipes are great to have as well if you want to wipe down anything that might seem sketchy. Sunscreen is one of the most important things you can have with you during the summer, and you’ll want it with you on your flight to lather up before you get off. You won’t want to forget a razor, especially if you shave and will be wearing shorts. It’s a good idea to bring one single nail polish you can use to touch up when it starts to chip. Don’t forget a small makeup bag with some beauty products if you want to look fresh when you land after your flight. Keep it simple with concealer, face powder, lip balm, and mascara. Palettes are great for traveling, especially if they include a good colour to fill in your eyebrows and a blush.
Where are you heading this summer, and what are your favourite tips for traveling? Let us know below!