On Friday me and two of my girlfriends will be leaving cold and windy England and heading for warmer climates.
We are embarking on a six month around the world trip, visiting South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, North America and Canada (if we have time). We have no idea what we will be doing in these places or in fact if we’ll like them at all, but that’s what makes it an adventure.
Everything I'm Taking
Right now however all I’m focussing on is making sure I’ve got everything I need to take away with me. Most people seem to think all you need to do is grab your passport, have some money and pack a pair of flip flops and you’re good to go. This couldn’t be further from the truth!
You have to think about the practicalities of each item you put in your bag. To start with there’s the medicines: rehydration tablets, insect repellent, water purifying tablets, plasters, anti-septic wipes, hay fever pills, malaria pills, sleeping pills etc., plus all the vaccinations you have to have a certain amount of time prior to travelling.
Then there are all the cosmetics and toiletries: make-up, lip-balm, sun cream, after sun, moisturiser, shower gel, razors, face wash, shampoo, conditioner, sponge, deodorant……all of which need to be properly sealed and the right size.
Paperwork is another thing I didn’t think I’d be spending so much time doing. Applying for Visas, photocopying my passport and driving license, printing off all confirmation of flights and excursions booked, finding the correct travel insurance, setting up direct debits, telling the bank where I’m going and when, reading what the embassy guidelines for each country. I swear it is a never ending list.
And then there’s all the unexpected things you need to do or buy; having to get the bank to issue you a new credit card as yours expires whilst away travelling, buying a travelling washing line, travel size toothpaste, a pillow case, a torch for the places which don’t have electricity, a padlock…
I think I have most of this sorted now though, there’s only a couple more things to do then I shall be ready. I’m sure whilst I’m away I’ll realise I didn’t need some of the stuff I thought was so important now, just like I’ll wish I had thought of taking a hundred other things. It’s very hard to predict what exactly it is you’ll need on a six month trip which spreads across more than six very different countries.
But as long as I have my passport and some clothes on my back I’m sure I will be fine.
Or maybe I’ll just go naked, save on the packing.
