Travellers share expert tips on how to pack and prep for your next vacation

2022 has been the year of revenge travel, with tourism returning to pre-Covid levels. Everyone is on the lookout for their next vacation this holiday season. From accommodations to mode of commute in a foreign land - a lot of variables can often seem daunting. If you are planning your next big trip, and the thought of packing your luggage - or the logistics of international travel make you anxious, we've got you covered. Mid-Day.com spoke to two seasoned female travellers who traverse the world with their efficiently packed bags that don't hold them back.

Effective packing tips
Bangalore-resident Rachita Bhonsle recently navigated her way through Vietnam over ten days with a 5.9 kg backpack, which she carried as cabin-baggage. It comes as no surprise that the 33-year-old has a penchant for backpacking, and enjoys camping, trekking, and adventure sports. "Longer trips have definitely taken a hit since the pandemic, but I try to spend at least one weekend away a month," shares Bhonsle.

By her own admission, she hates carrying check-in baggage which has led her to master the art of packing. Below she shares packing tips she swears by:

1. Pack light
It is always advisable to travel light. Pack exactly what you need for the precise number of days you are travelling for, with maybe two or three extra shirts. If it's a warm place, you can carry shorts and dresses. A check-in bag can be tiresome especially if you're going to be moving from one place to another.

If you are traveling to a colder climate, check-in baggage may be unavoidable. "I usually carry one or two pairs of boots and sneakers depending on if I'll be in a snowy region," says Bhonsle. Repeating pants and carrying different types of warm clothes (sweater, pea coat and maybe one puffer jacket) might be a good option to minimise clothing. Layering up instead of carrying one very heavy thick jacket can help you in case of varying temperatures.

Rachita Bhonsle went on a 10-day trip to Vietnam with a strategically packed 5.9 kg backpack. Photo credit/Rachita Bhonsle

2. Wear what's heavy
Forget the airport look, and wear your jeans, sneakers, and jacket while boarding your next flight so that it doesn't occupy space in your bag.

3. Be strategic with your space
Bhonsle lays out the shorts and pants flat towards the back of the bag so it also acts as extra cushioning for her back. All the shirts are ironed before packing and neatly rolled and stacked vertically so that she can easily remove only what she needs without unpacking the full bag each time. She also recommends carrying separate cloth bags for worn clothes, and if possible rinsing them out and drying them fully before packing it in.

4. Mini-sized everything
This is a life-saving hack for anyone who prefers sticking to cabin baggage. Make sure your toiletries are travel sized, or you can pour your shampoo, conditioner, and other liquids in mini-containers. Also avoid carrying sprays of any sort (limitation of not being allowed in cabin luggage as well). Carry a small roll-on for deodorant.

5. Do not overindulge with your souvenirs
Bhonsle suggests leaving at least 1 kg of space in your bag, in case you indulge in shopping and want to bring something back. She usually brings back a T-shirt and fridge magnets for herself, or if she comes across something truly unique which cannot be sourced online. For friends and family, she prefers to send them postcards while travelling.

Essential travel hacks for international travel

A senior software engineer from California, Rukmee Patel has become a digital nomad after travelling for seven years. Be it Goa or Hawaii, the 33-year-old prefers being in a place for one to two months to experience new cultures. She tells us, "I love trying new cuisines, and immersive experiences."

Digital nomad Rukmee Patel has been hopping around islands for seven years. Photo credit: Rukmee Patel

Below, Patel shares the most essential tips to keep in mind when travelling internationally:

-Always carry travel insurance prints, passport copies and passport size photos for visa on arrival.

-Carry a universal adapter for your devices, and check whether a voltage converter is required for your beauty and grooming appliances. A power-bank can also come handy during those long days of travel.

-To save up on exorbitant roaming charges, buy a local sim-card with internet data.

Every country to visit might have different convenience applications, make sure to download local apps for cabs, food, and grocery delivery.

-When travelling long-term it is best to buy one way tickets to a destination rather than round trip. It gives you the freedom to stay more or less depending on how you like a destination.

-In countries where you might experience a language barrier, it is advisable to learn a few basic words in the local language. Google translate allows you to download languages offline so you are always ready to communicate efficiently.

-Medicines are the most important thing to carry. From toothache to stomach ache, chances are the ones you are used to might not be accessible. Ladies, do not forget your UTI medicines.

-If you have a preference when it comes to toiletries or cosmetics, do not assume you will find them everywhere. It is best to carry your own.

- Remember, currency exchange rates at the airport tend to not be the best. It is advisable to exchange a limited amount of money, and seek better rates in the city.

Also Read: Here are seven travel trends to watch out for in 2023