A crucial part of the preparation for any school trip is packing. Before you embark on your adventure, you want to be sure you’ve got everything you need, while at the same time only what you need. Packing can be deconstructed as an exact science and the best way to approach it is methodical. You need a foolproof packing guide to ensure you’re good to go for your big trip. We’ve done our research and drawn upon the many years of travel experience within the WorldStrides team to bring you some valuable packing tips on what to pack for your educational travel program.
Whether you’re after a travel checklist or some general packing tips, you’ll find ideas in this article to help you pack for your next school trip!
Packing tips for different environments
Mountains
- Warm thermal layers – protect yourself against the lower temperatures at altitude by layering up with thermals.
- Waterproof windbreaker – being in the exposed wilderness, make sure you’re not at the mercy of the elements with a waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Lightweight down jacket – these will keep you insulated and protect you against cold temperatures, and they’re easy to pack.
- Good quality boots – it goes without saying, if you’re doing extensive trekking across uneven terrain, a supportive pair of good quality hiking boots will be a godsend.
- Hat and sunscreen – in open and exposed areas, protect yourself from sunburn with a hat and sunscreen.
Rainforests
- Quick-dry clothing and microfibre towels – rainforests are often wet environments, with quick-dry shirts and pants and a microfiber towel, all of which are easy to pack, you won’t be carrying or trekking around in clothing that’s sticky and wet.
- Good quality boots – like in mountainous areas, the terrain is usually uneven and unpredictable in the rainforest. Invest in good quality waterproof hiking boots and you’ll hardly notice!
- Insect repellent – Wet areas are a breeding ground for insects, cover yourself in insect repellent so you can adventure with peace of mind!
Urban areas
- Comfortable walking shoes – whether you’re sightseeing, exploring or shopping, you’ll likely be doing lots of walking, so get yourself some comfortable shoes.
- Sunglasses – to match your comfortable yet stylish shoes, pack a nicely fitting pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage throughout the day and complete your look!
- Scarf – the streets in cities with a grid-style layout can sometimes feel like wind tunnels in windy weather. Keep yourself rugged up with a scarf, which can also double as conservative clothing if you’re visiting sacred sites with dress codes.
Essential items to pack for your tour
Important Documentation
- Passport
- Plane tickets
- Foreign currency
- Tour documents
Carry-on luggage
- Important documentation
- Medication you need
- Phone & charger
- Tissues, face wipes, toothbrush and some toiletries (under 100g)
- Books for waiting times
- Must be under 5kg
Useful toiletry items
- 100ml containers for carry-on toiletry liquids
- Hanging toiletries bag
- Non-aerosol deodorant
- Soap or body wash
- Tissues, face wipes and sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Any medication you require
- Band-Aids, cold and flu tablets, vitamins
- Nail clippers
If required
- Shaving supplies
- Dry ‘spray-in’ shampoo
- Makeup and lip balm
- Motion sickness medication
- Female hygiene products
- Bobby pins and hair elastics
Clothing
- Underwear and socks for entire trip
- One warm jumper or jacket
- One nice outfit
- Belt
- Hat or cap
- Exercise clothing
- Sleeping clothes
If required
- Swimmers or waterproof jacket
- Thermals
- Glasses and case
- Watch
Other items
- Locks for luggage
- Adapter charger
- Spare camera batteries
- Tour journal
- Pens
- Foldable umbrella
- Sandals/slip-on shoes
- Water bottle
Things that will help you pack
You’re faced with your belongings spread across the bedroom floor asking yourself what is the best way to pack a suitcase? Well, there are many tricks and items that can help you get organised and pack your bag properly. For a comprehensive breakdown of packing hacks, check out our article here. A few worthwhile investments that will help you pack are:
- Portable luggage scales – keep track of your luggage weight so you can shop with peace of mind on your educational travel program
- Packing cubes – separate your clothing in a visually obvious way and transform your suitcase into a beautifully organised space
- Packing organiser bags – group together various belongings for quick and easy access
Take packing seriously for your tour and you’ll be unburdened by an overflowing suitcase or missing items, as you’re having the time of your life.
Want more? Check out our packing tips and hacks here.
