Be your own best pack man -2

So you think you’re ready to pack? Remember these.

Shoes. It’s highly recommendable to bring a pair of sturdy running shoes or sneakers. You’re bound to do a lot of walking and nothing ruins sightseeing than aching feet. A pair of evening shoes (heels or leather shoes) for going to a fancy restaurant (some dining places have stringent rules on footwear) or for some serious partying. Sandals and walking shoes also deserve space in your maleta.

Jeans. Bring at least two pairs. The wonderful thing about denim is that you can use them more than once and if you pair it with a glamorous top, then you can easily transform yourself from a traveling plain Jane to a jet-setting VIP.

Tops. Shirts and blouses made of stretchable or knitted material are always a must-have in your luggage. They are low maintenance--they hardly get crumpled, no need to iron, plus you can roll them up in such a way that they won’t take too much space in your luggage. They’re also very flexible--you can wear them rain or shine or snow.

Black. Bring at least a pair of black formal slacks (for girls, that stretchable black boot-cut pants). You can pair them with either running shoes or formal shoes. Also, you can never go wrong if you bring an all-black-ensemble.

Jewelry. This is actually very tricky. If you’re the type who feels naked without jewelry, then go ahead and bring if you must. But do keep it at a minimum. A pair of simple studs or necklace will do. Leave those bangles and bracelets (and your usual dose of metallic flashiness) in the safety of your home. A watch is a must just as long as it is not full of diamond studs. There are snatchers everywhere, not just in the Philippines, so make sure you do not attract the attention of these elements. And word to the wise, wear your jewelry. Don’t make it siksik in some corner of your hand-carry and luggage or else improve the chances of losing it.

Jacket. A thin cardigan or a denim jacket comes in handy even in hot places like the beach. But for colder destinations, then a thick jacket (preferably with a hood) is a must-have. Colorful jackets are cute and cool, but if you want to be more flexible, then bring a jacket in earth or neutral tones or black.

Bags. Apart from your luggage, it is highly recommended to bring at least one other bag especially for sightseeing, malling or backpacking. Body bags, knapsacks and belt bags were invented not just to make a fashion statement, but most importantly, to make traveling more convenient. Another good option would be to bring a mid-size leather shoulder bag. Leather is sturdy and never goes out of style. You won’t be ashamed to bring it both to daytime activities and evening events.

Underwear. How many horror stories have we heard of people of bringing everything but underwear? Remember: forget everything but your passport, wallet and underwear!

Socks. Two is the magic number: two pairs of terrycloth sports socks, two pairs of white ped socks, two pairs of thin black socks (for loafers or leather shoes) and you’re all set!

Toiletries. Toothbrush is expensive elsewhere. So are soap, shampoo, lotion and shaver. Do not forget the deodorant! So if you want to maximize your pocket money, then better bring these. Bring a pack of sanitary pads--nothing is worse than a painful surf in the crimson waves than buying pads that are five times more expensive than your local brand. Petroleum jelly always comes in handy for sunburn or flaky dry skin. Just make sure you transfer it to a small container instead of those big bulky square ones.

For girls who can’t live without makeup, there are only two things you need: Tweezerman (to pluck those annoying growing eyebrow hair and to keep those brows neat) and Benefit Benetint for lips and cheeks. The latter is for blush and lipstick, all in one small bottle.

Medicine. If you’re prone to allergies (crustacean-intolerant, etc.) then bring allergy tablets. A change of weather can induce asthma attacks, so bring a nebulizer. Aspirin and cold tablets cost an arm and a leg in most parts of the world so please, please bring your provisions. Getting sick is much more expensive elsewhere. Also, if you’re not sure if the water in your destination is safe, then purifying water tablets are an absolute necessity.

Lip balm

Camera or videocam. Preferably with panoramic function.

Dictionary. No, not the Webster’ English dictionary. Of course, get one in Spanish or Japanese, depending on where your destination is. Unless you’re game for nonstop charades and hand gestures.

A bottle of H20. Traveling can be dehydrating.

International driving license. Apply for one with the LTO at least a month before you plan to leave.

Passport, visa and other necessary documents. No further explanations needed. Bring them with you all the time. You never know when you’re going to need it.

Money. Apart from cold cash, international credit cards are a great help, believe me.

Don’t forget to keep it light and compact. You don’t want to break your back carrying your entire luggage.

Oh yeah, keep a pen and paper handy, according to Tammy. You never know, you might just run into Leonardo or better yet, Jude Law.