Packing & Preparation
The goal isn’t packing light for the sake of it; it’s packing well. Thoughtful preparation means fewer decisions on the road and more room for what matters.
Pre-Travel Checklist
The weeks before a trip should feel like anticipation, not anxiety. This checklist covers the details that are easy to overlook: document prep, financial logistics, health essentials, tech setup, and the small things at home that need handling before you leave.
It's the same framework I use with my clients. One page. Print it, check it off, and travel with confidence that nothing was missed. Enter your email below and I'll send it straight to your inbox.
TSA Guidelines
The liquid rule still applies: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, all fitting in a single quart-sized clear bag. Solid toiletries: bar soap, solid shampoo, solid deodorant, bypass this entirely and are worth considering if you want to simplify security.
Sharp objects, large scissors, and most multitools belong in checked luggage. Medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, are permitted in carry-on and do not need to be in their original packaging, though having the prescription label is helpful for controlled substances.
If you’re ever unsure about a specific item, TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool lets you search by item name.
Power Adapters & Voltage
Outlet shapes and electrical voltage vary around the world, and bringing the wrong adapter (or no adapter) is one of those small oversights that creates daily frustration.
Here’s what you need to know, starting with the basics and then broken down by region.
The Essentials
The world runs on two voltage ranges: 110–127V (used in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Japan, and parts of Central and South America) and 220–240V (used in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania).
This matters because voltage determines whether your device will work safely or not.
Modern electronics like phones, tablets, laptops, camera chargers are almost always dual-voltage. Look for “Input: 100–240V” on the charger or power brick. If you see that, you only need a plug adapter to fit the local outlet shape. No voltage converter required.
Appliances like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons are usually not dual-voltage. Plugging a 110V appliance into a 220V outlet will destroy it, possibly dramatically. Either bring dual-voltage versions, check with your hotel about in-room options, or skip them.
My Recommendations
A compact USB charging hub with a built-in adapter for your destination is the most efficient solution for phones, tablets, and cameras. It handles multiple devices from a single outlet.
If you travel to different regions regularly, invest in a quality universal travel adapter that covers all plug types (A through N). Look for one with multiple USB ports built in. Avoid the cheapest options. A well-made adapter from a reputable brand is safer and more reliable.
Bring at least two adapters regardless of where you’re going. You’ll want to charge your phone and another device simultaneously, and hotel rooms don’t always have conveniently located outlets.
Plug Types
Type C, E, F
Voltage
220–230V
Key Details
Type C (Europlug) fits most sockets. Type E is common in France and Belgium. Type F (Schuko) is standard in Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Spain. A standard European adapter covers all three.
Continental Europe (France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Greece, Netherlands, Scandinavia)
Baggage Policies
Luggage-Free Travel
If you’d rather not deal with checked luggage at all, door-to-door luggage shipping is an option worth considering; especially for longer trips, multi-destination itineraries, or anyone who prefers to move through airports unencumbered.
Your bags are picked up from your home and delivered to your hotel, so you travel with just a carry-on. It removes the risk of lost luggage entirely and makes transit days significantly easier.
I work with a trusted shipping partner and can arrange this as part of your trip design. To request this service, send me an email: studio@uptowntraveldesign.com