Packing can be a real headache. Follow our advice to provide optimal and space-saving luggage.
A few basic questions
What you should pack depends on your destination, the type of traveler you are, and your mode of transportation.
What will the temperature be at your destination?
Above all, check the normal seasonal temperatures. A variable that is often overlooked: the differences in heat between day and evening, or caused by altitude, for example.
What activities are available?
To be well prepared, find out about the activities offered on site. This will allow you to plan the appropriate outfit, but also to make the necessary reservations.
What means will you use to get around?
Your mode of transport determines the equipment you can bring. A surfboard and a pedestrian trip don't go well together, for example.
Find out about the transport conditions
What are the costs, constraints and limits imposed by the transport company? Check the packaging requirements of your equipment carefully because it could be refused if it is found to be non-compliant.
How much baggage can you bring?
Check with the transport company to find out what is allowed in the cabin and what counts as checked baggage. Between your equipment and your clothes, you have to choose, unless you pay a supplement.
What types of bags and suitcases will be optimal?
For trips on foot, opt for a lightweight and multifunctional hiking backpack. On the contrary, if you are sedentary, a wheeled suitcase will do. Itinerant travellers, who travel by plane, train or car, are spoiled for choice. We still advise you to provide several pockets to organize your belongings.
Please note, if you are traveling by plane, checked baggage is not always included.
Choose the right clothes to put in your luggage
To make the right choice, think practicality and versatility.
Prefer multilayer
To adapt your outfit according to the temperature, bring multifunctional clothes that you can layer. There is no need to burden yourself with a big coat. Better to bet on a windproof parka and a fleece, for example. A jacket with a removable liner is also very practical.
What shoes are needed?
The right shoes are those that adapt to the climate of your vacation spot as well as the activities you have chosen. Are you going to walk a lot? A comfortable pair of shoes is essential.
Some occasions call for a more chic outfit. Don't forget your special shoes, if needed.
Caring for your clothes
Can you easily wash your clothes? How often? The amount of clothing you need depends on these two variables. If you're traveling with young children, pack enough clothes so you don't have to spend your time in the laundry room.
In any case, we advise you to favor wrinkle-resistant and quick-drying clothes.
Some often useful accessories for the sportsman while traveling
You'll be happy to have them on hand, should you need them:
- Combination padlock
- Sewing set
- Ear plugs
- compact umbrella
- Elastics
- Mosquito repellent
- Waterproof pouches
- Medical information
- Bandages and dressings
- Sleeping mask
- Headlamp
- small compass
- Water bottle or bottle of water
- laundry soap
- Quick dry towel
Don't forget your travel guides
You have two choices: the guide in paper or electronic version. The paper format offers the advantage of being available at all times, but can be cumbersome for trips to multiple destinations. The electronic format is more practical if you visit several countries, but requires electricity to charge your reading device.
Plan your sports activities
You may need paper or materials to practice your activities.
Bring your sports credentials
Some sports, such as top-rope climbing or diving, for example, require accreditations. It would be a shame to have to iron them on the spot if you already have them.
Shop for your activities before departure
To avoid unpleasant surprises, we advise you to book your activities before your departure. You will avoid disappointments, such as finding the facilities closed or the activity being complete when you arrive.
Do you have to take it all?
It is sometimes easier and less expensive to rent your equipment on site. Leisure facilities and hotels usually have the necessary equipment.
Do you need specialized clothing?
Depending on your destination, certain items are useful, such as a bathing suit at the beach or heated gloves in the mountains, for example. A diving mask for underwater observation is a must for a holiday in the south. It is compact and you are likely to use it very often.
Plan your trip well
Planning your trip is often an opportunity to project yourself and not forget anything, but it is above all the beginning of the trip. What do you think?
