Planning a relaxing vacation is an exciting process, but the packing list can often feel overwhelming, and don’t you always feel like you’ve forgotten something? To ensure your vacation is as relaxing as possible, it’s important to pack wisely. Here is a guide to the essential items we encourage you to bring to make the most of your relaxation time. Note that this is for a relaxing vacation, not a specifically active one. Let’s make a different travel essentials for that kind of trip!
Let’s get started!
1. Comfortable Clothing
When it comes to relaxation, comfort is key. Breathable clothing like cotton or linen that keeps you cool and comfortable is ideal. Think of loose-fitting dresses, shorts, T-shirts/tops, and a pair of comfortable pants. Maybe a single pair of loose pants if it’s a vacation lasting up to a week, but you might consider more than one pair if your trip is longer. If you plan on going out in the evenings and dressing up a bit – pack accordingly. From experience, tight-fitting dresses can be challenging because I’m very conscious of sweat marks, especially after sitting down, if you know what I mean :O It can be a bit annoying when you want to enjoy yourself and feel good about how you look. However, I always pack a flattering dress or two anyway 😉
I always pack a light jacket or a long-sleeved top in case the evenings get cool (depending on where you’re going, of course).
Don’t forget swimwear, preferably several pairs if you have more than one. Remember diving goggles if you use them. Remember to have fun! Bring them!
Even if you’re going on a relaxing vacation, you might want to bring some workout clothes, just in case you feel like grabbing a morning workout before starting your day of relaxation. From personal experience, starting the day this way is great, and you can feel good about relaxing after working up a little sweat.
2. Shoes for Every Occasion
Choose shoes that match your planned activities. Sandals for the beach, comfortable sneakers for sightseeing, and perhaps a pair of nicer shoes for an evening out.
Keep in mind to bring a pair of sandals that can handle sand and wet feet.
Yeah, there’s probably no need to elaborate more.
Let’s move on!
3. Toiletries
Toiletries are probably my favorite to pack! I love packing my skincare products, hair products, and finding travel sizes of the products I use.
Hygiene
Let’s start with the basics – toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss (or whatever you use instead). Remember a bath sponge, deodorant and perfume(s).
Skincare/Haircare
Pack your skincare products. I pack my cleanser, toner, serum, day cream and night cream, eye cream, and face scrub. Don’t forget cotton pads. If travel sizes of these products are available, I take those to save space in the suitcase.
I usually don’t bring shampoo or conditioner when I travel, but I use what’s available at the hotel or accommodation. However, I make sure to pack my hair serum, hair oil, heat protector, straightener, and hairspray.
Also, remember to pack your makeup and tampons/pads. I have a makeup pouch to keep my makeup in.
Remember
Make sure to pack shampoo, hairspray, toothpaste, skincare etc. – anything liquid should be packed in plastic bags, preferably individually, to avoid a shampoo explosion during the flight, that could spill into your luggage. We really, really don’t want that!
4. Electronics and Chargers
Pack headphones and your phone along with its charger. I always bring my laptop, just for watching movies at night. It can also play some music for a funny or romantic evening on the balcony. Don’t forget the charger for that as well.
Be aware that some countries have different power outlets than you are used to. Check this before you leave and buy an adapter if necessary.
Remember to pack your phone charger in your carry-on luggage in case your checked luggage is delayed.
5. Entertainment
A book or two can be cozy and good entertainment when you’re lounging by the beach or pool. Be aware that if you are traveling to a destination with high humidity, the bookpages can detach from the cover. This is a risk, so either don’t bring a book you are very fond of, or accept that this might happen.
Prepare and create one or several playlists with your favourite music, perhaps a playlist with some meditation or relaxation tracks. Do what works best for you. Consider downloading audiobooks and other media beforehand, so that you are not dependent on the internet when you arrive.
6. Health and Safety
Pack a small first aid kit with essential items such as band-aids, pain relievers, allergy medicine, insect repellent and any personal medical necessities. It’s also wise to bring hand sanitizer and face masks if needed at your destination.
Remember to pack birth control pills and place them in your carry-on luggage in case your checked luggage is delayed.
7. Travel Documents
Make sure to have all necessary travel documents with you: passport, tickets, reservation confirmations and any visa information. A travel document organizer can help keep everything organized and easily accessible. We recommend you keeping these in your carry-on luggage.
8. Bags and Storage
A spacious yet lightweight suitcase is ideal for packing all your belongings. Consider using packing cubes to keep your items organized and easy to find. Also, consider a smaller bag or backpack for day trips and excursions. I have a nice crossbody bag that I always bring and a fanny pack that I use as a crossbody, which is more suitable for pool use or similar.
9. Water Bottle
A reusable water bottle is also a must for staying hydrated, especially if you’re traveling to a warm climate. Just saying – remember to think about what water you drink. We always buy bottled water, and put it in our thermos bottles to keep it cool when going out.
10. Relaxing Accessories
Finally, don’t forget the small things that can help you relax. A travel pillow, a light blanket, and perhaps a pair of earplugs and an eye mask can make a long journey much more comfortable.
By packing smart and thoughtfully, you can ensure your relaxing vacation is as stress-free as you’ve dreamed.
With these things in your luggage, your can’t go completely wrong.
I hope you found it helpfull, and safe travels to you all <3