Essential packing tips for a stress-free spring break

Spring break is something we all look forward to. It’s the perfect time to take a break from classes, enjoy the warming weather and make memories with the people we care about. Whether you’re traveling somewhere far or near, packing smart is key to having a stress-free trip.

Travel essentials

Before you head out for your spring break trip, make sure you have all of the basic travel essentials. A valid ID—or passport, if you are leaving the country—is crucial. Keep your tickets, itinerary and any travel confirmations easily accessible. Carry a secure wallet with any cash and cards you may need, and don’t forget your tech essentials like your phone, chargers, and even a portable charging bank if you have one. These tools will help you to stay connected and navigate your trip with ease.

Clothing and footwear

With your travel essentials packed, the next step is choosing the right clothes for your trip. If you are planning on swimming, pack two to three swimsuits if you are able, so you always have a dry one ready. Two pairs of versatile bottoms and four to five tops should be enough for a five day trip. If you have plans for dinners or fancy nights out, bring one or two outfits that can be dressed up or down depending on your plans, and a light jacket or sweater is something you’ll wish you had on the breezier evenings.

Comfortable shoes are essential, so pack a pair of sneakers for those days you’ll be walking a ton. And don’t forget the basics, like underwear, socks and sleepwear. Research the weather at your destination before you pack to help you decide what to bring, and bring versatile options that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.

Toiletries and personal care

Don’t forget your toiletries! Make sure to pack essentials like travel size soap, toothpaste and your toothbrush and deodorant. Sunscreen with a high SPF is important if you are going to be spending a lot of time outside to protect your skin from harmful sunburns. It’s also a good idea to have some first-aid supplies, such as antiseptic wipes, band-aids, hand sanitizer and pain relievers.

Outdoor supplies

If your spring break plans involve a lot of outdoor time, it’s good to have some supplies to make enjoying your outdoor activities even easier. Sunglasses and a hat are good for sun protection and keeping you cool, and a beach towel or a lightweight blanket is great for lounging. A reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated, and you can bring it through airport security as long as it is empty. Having a small backpack or tote bag to carry your essentials or any souvenirs you buy is helpful as well.

Entertainment

In addition to everything you’ve already packed, sometimes it’s nice to have some entertainment for those days with less activities. Bringing along a book or a deck of cards can help you to stay entertained during downtime, and if you enjoy music, a portable speaker is nice to have.

Packing tips

Planning and packing well are essential for a successful trip. Plan ahead by creating a packing list with all the things you know you’ll need. To maximize space in your luggage, you can roll your clothing instead of folding and bring a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes from your clean ones. And if you are flying, having a carry-on with some essentials is helpful if your flight is delayed or something happens to your luggage.

As the excitement of spring break nears, packing wisely and preparing is essential to having a stress-free trip. Thoughtful packing will allow you to relax a little easier and make the most of your break from school.