Travel light, travel fun, travel safe...

Yesterday when talking to a friend, I released safety is a big big concern for us travellers, more so if you are travelling alone. Here are a few tips I have gathered over the years... 

Pack just what you need- If I am going on a trip for 5days, i will carry 4 sets of clothes plus a night wear, a towel and extra undergarments. Infact, while 3 sets is enough, I always carry one extra [ what if it rains, what if it rips, or any such unforeseen thing happens].. What makes travelling light fun is caring one or two bottom wear and multiple tops- kurtis, shirts, tops, t-shirts or kaftans. For nightwear, I usually carry a T-shirt and 3/4 or shorts and just repeat it. 

I don't believe in carrying multiple extra stuff, I would only end up lugging them up and down.. 

With reference to handbags, I carry one that can fit as much as I need, has enough zips and compartments. I hate carrying bags that are open or with just one compartment. 

Money- I always pack money in different places- there will be some in my wallet, some more inside a zipper in the handbag and some in my bag/suitcase/backpack.  I put money wrapped up in handkerchiefs and small pouches as well. 

One other thing that I do carry at times is a local guide book or map that friends have handed over..I also have a notebook, pen in my bag at all times.. This is to carry addresses, places to go to and of course local contacts, if any!

There are a few important things that travel with me no matter what kind of a trip I go on- short or long ones. 

• Medicines- the basic ones will always be there in my bag- gelusil, crocin, coldact, lomotil/loparet, karvol+,etc... 
• Pads- it does not matter if I have finished my periods, I always carry a pack.
• Hand towel and tissues- yes!
• Socks- for shoes and for night 

Perfume- I invariably spray a generous amount on all my clothes when packing. So what I do then is carry a smaller bottle or vial for the trip. I also don't carry new ones, there are a few that I carry for travel, so those come in handy. 

Am not big on Accessories/cosmetics, especially make up stuff doesn't really appeal. I carry an eye liner, a compact and a few pair of earrings. Things that will go with any outfit, and I would be ok [ya right] if I misplace them! 

And then come the Gadgets - Mobile phone+charger, Laptop+charger, DSLR+Charger+USB cable, iPod+Charger... Phew, aren't these one too many? If am heading on a fun trip, I avoid the laptop [which means i also don't carry the camera USB cable] and if it is a short trip, then I can do away with the iPod charger as well. Sometimes I chuck the camera as well and make do with the phone. Less is more at times, right? I don't want to be worrying about all these things being safe... too much of a hassle. 

Next time you are planning a trip, do remember packing less, carrying less is always more fun!!

Put aside all your what ifs and worries, just go have a good time!