How To Pack For An International Trip

By: Emma Larkins

Break Studios Contributing Writer

When you're traveling abroad, it's important to know how to pack for an international trip. Here are some important tips to remember:

Think Basics. When you pack for an international trip, you need to bring along the same basics you would normally bring when you travel closer to home. This includes clothing, toiletries, your camera, and money. And of course, don't forget your passport.
Think Power. We've gotten so used to having our technological toys ready at a moment's notice that we almost don't think about how they are charged anymore. Your regular charger will hardly work anywhere when you're on an international trip. You're going to need a power adapter if you want to keep using your camera, phone, laptop, and other gadgets while you travel.
Think Weather. You need to get specific when you're thinking about weather. So you've heard that Greece is always awash in sunshine? Perhaps, but it also snows in some places in the winter. When you're packing for an international trip, learn from the locals what the weather is usually like, and bring a variety of clothing just in case.
Think Language. True, people around the world speak English, but it's always nice to be able to talk the local language. So buy and pack a language book for your trip. And who knows, you might find yourself wanting to woo a local beauty in her native tongue.
Think Culture. The US generally has an accepting attitude towards clothing and accessories, depending on the area you're in. Other countries have much stricter rules. For example, woman can get an unwelcome reception wearing revealing clothing in certain parts of India. Find out before you pack for your international trip what's generally acceptable in the location that you're traveling to.
Think Amenities. You're used to having access to things like drinking water, toothpaste, and yes, even toilet paper wherever you go. It can come as a nasty shock when these things aren't readily available in your international destination. Play it safe, and keep this mantra in mind: if you don't want to be without it, bring it. This includes any medications you think you might need, and emergency food supplies like granola bars if you have a sensitive stomach that might be affected by local cuisines.