Essential Packing Tips for Holiday Traveling
Planning to get away this holiday season? Before you go, there are a few things you should know about packing for holiday travel. From the weather forecast to airline regulations and everything in between, there’s a lot to consider before you take flight. Here are some essential packing tips to help you travel safely and comfortably during the holidays.
Know the Weather Forecast
While you may be watching snowflakes dance in the sky here in Maryland, odds are, you won’t be seeing any such precipitation when visiting your family in Florida. So, before you start packing, be sure to check the weather forecast. You definitely don’t want to be packing sweaters and jeans when jet-setting off to a tropical destination. If it might rain, pack a small umbrella. If it might snow, bring along a heavy winter jacket. Always know the climate and upcoming forecast of where you’re headed to.
Make a List and Check It Twice
If you’re traveling during the busy holiday season, you may feel overwhelmed about packing. But, a list can help suppress some of those worries. A few weeks ahead of your departure date, make a list of items you can’t leave without. Besides clothing, make sure to account for toiletries, electronics, and perhaps most importantly of all, holiday gifts! And, make sure to keep the list on hand during your trip. It will come in handy when you’re packing up everything to travel back home.
Check the Airline’s Policies
Traveling by air? Make sure to do your due diligence and read the airline’s policies for luggage. Going over the weight limit or packing a prohibited item can put a damper on your holiday plans. Find out how many bags are allowed on the flight and what the added fees may be for carrying on/checking bags. In addition to reading through the airline’s policies, make sure to check current TSA rules and regulations. If you plan to have a carry-on bag, you’ll have to abide by the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels.
Roll Instead of Folding
Some people pack light. Others pack heavy. If you’re not a light traveler, abide by this time-tested advice: roll, don’t fold. As you pack your suitcase, take each piece of clothing and roll it tightly. You’ll notice that your garments will take up much less space in your travel bag. Besides saving space, rolled clothes resist wrinkling and unsightly creases, so you won’t need to spend time ironing when you get to your destination.
Make Use of Packing Aids
If you’ve rolled all of your clothes but are still having issues fitting everything inside your suitcase, packing aids may help. In today’s marketplace, there are tons of travel accessories designed to save space and keep you organized. When you’re short on space, consider purchasing a compression bag. Some require the use of a vacuum cleaner. Others can be rolled to squeeze out excess air. Take the time to find a compression bag that works for your travel needs.
Plan Your Holiday Season Travel
Using these packing tips can help ensure your holiday travel plans go off without a hitch. If you’re arranging a trip to Washington, DC, Baltimore or any of the surrounding areas this holiday season, enlist the help of Chesapeake Charter. We offer sightseeing tour transportation, letting you, your friends, and your family see all the sights when in town. Request a quote today.