Q&A for How to Pack for a Trip

Pack about two to three days before the trip. This way, you're not worrying about packing all your stuff 30 minutes before you leave and leading up to the day you leave you might think of something you forgot to pack.

Pack lightly to begin with and perhaps take clothes with you that you don't mind leaving behind (hit the thrift store) so that you can bring home new clothes and things instead. Pack an additional bag or two, or be prepared to buy those at the destination. However, bear in mind the costs of additional bags or space availability, depending on your type of transportation. It can be helpful to look up ways to make one outfit go further with simple changes of clothing, as that means you pack fewer items of clothing.

Pack some electronics, such as a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop. You can also pack a book, a notebook, or a sketchbook. If you are traveling with other people, you could bring a deck of cards instead. Many planes also have movies that you can rent out and watch on a private screen.

You should really just take some personal items and a little money -- you don't need much else. Make sure you have clothing for the next day, toiletries, and any medicine you need.

Bring snacks, water, reading materials and headphones.

A small suitcase may be heavier and difficult to maneuver but it may have more space than a backpack. However, if you would rather keep your more personal items with you, a backpack would be better.

There's tic tac toe, Pictionary, dots and boxes, hangman; these are just a few ideas.

Yes, but it must be in a travel-size container and must be packed in a checked bag.

You will probably set off the metal detector. Just inform the security people that you have an artificial hip when this happens, and they'll understand. They deal with it all the time, probably at least once an hour.

Bring a lot of different types of entertainment, like movies and books, so you don't have to do the same thing for the whole trip.

No, not unless you're worried about a period leak or such. Even then, if something did happen, you can always wash it and sleep in a pair of underpants for one night while the PJ pants dry.

Pack versitile pieces that you can mix and match to make multiple outfits. Make sure you have outfits for any events (i.e. swimming, hiking, fancy dinners, etc.), as well as shoes, toiletries, and necessary personal items.

Yes, but it likely needs to be microchipped. Check with your airline's website for more rules/regulations. You'll also need to make sure your breed of dog is allowed in the country/state you are going to.

You need to hold on to your most important possessions so nobody can take them and you won't lose them.

You can put them into ziplock bags or ring boxes for safekeeping.

Just think through everything your pet needs on a daily basis and bring it with you. This may include food, water (and dishes for both), any necessary medications, toys, leash, litter box, etc. It's also a good idea to have ID tags on your pet or have it microchipped in case it goes missing in an unfamiliar place.

Pack one outfit, two at most. Bring comfortable shoes and any needs for entertainment.

Yes, you may. You can place jewelry inside your socks or inside a small bag where it won't get tangled. Just make sure you don't misplace anything valuable!

You should be able to find a new pack at the airport shop, but if not, some paper and pencils give endless possibilities.

Go through your day (and the planned activities) and make a list of what you'll need.

You should pack a lot of clothes, and even more if you will swim on the trip. Bring small cases of toothpaste and hairbrushes.

If you're checking your bag, then you can pack however many will fit. In a carry-on bag, you would be limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.

It depends on how much room you have in your bag. If you have room after packing all the necessities, then go for it.

Yes. If it is a liquid, make sure the medication is in your liquid bag. For all medicine, make sure they are in the containers in which they were prescribed.

Yes, of course.

Yes, you can. If it's easier, put it into small travel bottles first.

Check the weather for thet days you will be there and base your choices of clothing on that. (Ex: hot weather: tank tops, sandals; cool weather: raincoat, pants, jacket, etc.)

Set your alarm for 4:30 or 5:00 for several mornings in a row before the trip to get used to it. If you're worried, set several alarms to go off, or ask a parent, sibling, friend, etc. to help make sure you get up.

Pack at least four shirts and three bottoms.

Towels, sunscreen, swimsuit, sandals, goggles, food, and water. If you plan to lay out in the sun for a bit, bring a large umbrella and maybe a book to read.