# Preparing for a trip

This guide teaches how to prepare for a trip such as a vacation.
If you are planning to go on an extended journey such as a vacation, don't expect that you will be able to memorize all of the things you would like to take with you. Better make a list of things not to forget in the days leading up to it. Ideally, have your things packed and ready to go on the day before departure.
The first thing to think of, especially for a trip that involves long distance walking, is bottled water, as thirst can cause fatigue and diminish your ability to think clearly. Also consider bringing some snacks such as sandwiches, which are easy to make.
Consider bringing additional data storage for photos and videos, as well as power banks to charge your electronic devices. How much to bring depends on how much you estimate is necessary for the duration of the trip but with an added margin. If you bring a laptop computer, consider also bringing an external mouse for more comfortable use, and a USB hub to allow for plugging more devices at once.
But don't stress out excessively about what to bring with you, since you may be able to purchase equipment as needed near your destination.
If you happen to have forgotten anything you needed during the trip, write it down to help you memorize it next time.

## Packing

Packing can be the hardest or the easiest part of a trip. When packing you want to make sure you're covering the essentials while still having room to expand and personalize. What you need to pack is dependent on the type of trip you take. This is can vary on the temperature, climate, and levels of activity of your destination.
One method you can use is the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for week long trips: This requires limiting yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. You want to maximize your space by fitting your belongings together and filling every inch of space.
* Use packing cubes to compartmentalize your belongings.
* Wrap around the center.
* Roll your clothes. This will help to minimize wrinkles and maximize space.
There are also the types of bags that you may want to take. For a trip that requires airfare you may want to take a hard-shelled suitcase no more than 22 inches tall. This will allow it to be used as a carry-on. For outdoor camping trips or backpacking trips you would want to bring a hiking or day pack. When going on a trip that requires odd-shaped gear consider bringing a duffel bag as they are durable and flexible.
If the trip takes longer than a day, bring a toothbrush and toothpaste for cleaning your teeth.

## Understanding The Area

Before you travel somewhere it is good to become familiar with the culture, practices, and cuisines of the places you go to. This also includes knowing what you plan on doing. Many places offer many different activities. It is crucial that you understand what types of activities will be offered at your destination this includes beaches, hiking, or shopping. You can research the area beforehand online by finding tour groups and guides.
You want to know what amenities will be offered at your travel destination as this will determine what you must pack and prepare.
If the trip goes abroad, inform yourself about roaming costs for telephony and cellular internet access. For remote locations with uncertainty of cellular reception, consider bringing PMR446 handheld radios (also known as "walkie-talkies") for communication.
There are many different types of trips and vacations:
* Camping, which is more outdoorsy and requires the bringing of your own items such as water bottles, navigation, shelter, and food.
* Cruises, which provides you with amenities such as food, drinks, and shopping.
* Road trips, which provide the comfort of your car and hotel stops, but still require you to provide your own food and drinks.
* Ski trips. A ski vacation requires packing cold-weather essentials.