Greek Odyssey Part 2 - Packing

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It’s been awhile since I’ve packed for a long trip overseas.  I’m guessing that is true for a lot of you as well.  And while I was a bit rusty, and it took me longer to pack than it normally does, I did finally manage to get it done in a fairly efficient manner.

Here are 5 of my tips:

1. If you don’t already know and understand the magic of packing cubes, get thee over to Amazon or your favorite store and pick some up.  In my opinion they are literally the best invention since sliced bread.  They keep your clothes neat and organized, you can use them as “drawers” when you arrive at your destination, and if you are really disciplined, you might not even have much to repack when it’s time to go home.  I use them in various sizes for everything; clothes of course, but also electronics, jewelry, underwear, even snacks. This makes if much easier to unpack when I get to my where I’m going.
2. If you have a roller suitcase, you probably have the supports that run the length of the luggage, making little hollows in the bottom.  That is wasted space if not used properly.  Those indentations are perfect places for shoes socks, cords, jewelry, etc.  Fill them up and place your packing cubes on top, and you’ll be able to fit in much more.
3. I always pack everything I might need for the first 24 hours in one packing cube.  Since most overseas flights arrive in the morning, I include a change of clothes, sleepwear, underwear, a dinner outfit and something to wear the next day until I have a chance to unpack.  Oftentimes, I’ll throw in a bathing suit as well. 
4. I use another small bag just for the toiletries I might need on the plane or those first 24 hours.  It fits compactly in my under the seat carryon, and is there whenever I need it.  It includes pain reliever, medications, sanitizer, wipes, toothbrush and paste, lotion, etc.
5. I know in the age of smart phones and other high tech devices, this may sound quaint and old fashioned, but I always print out any documents I might need.  I have the boarding pass on my phone, but I also carry a hard copy of it as well.  Same thing with my vaccination card and for this trip the form that is required to get into Greece.  While having these things digitalized is convenient, scrolling through a phone can hold up lines and can be confusing for the government personnel checking everything.  And in some cases, paper documents are required. The best example of this is your vaccination card; most authorities will not accept it on your phone, they want to see the real deal.  

 

So I’m packed and ready to go. I’ll be checking one bag, and carrying on the other, along with my tote bag. My Kindle is charged up and movies are downloaded to my iPad. One connection in Philadelphia, then on to Greece. Azamara Journey, here we come!

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