The healthy of your family on any trip is most important, I believe, right before you leave. Whether or not you leave the house healthy plays a big part in health while on the trip. Your system will be taxed with exposure to exciting new viruses and bacteria while on your trip so it’s best to have a clean bill of health right out of the gate.
It’s a well known fact that many, many families procrastinate packing until the last minute. Sometimes it’s a matter of not having the time away from work responsibilities to get it all done. And sometimes it’s just not that high on the list to get done before you leave. Whatever the reason, leaving this task until the end, especially the night before you leave can put you behind the 8 ball and compromise your health.
First, ample sleep is needed to help your body recover and fight off any infection or sickness that might be creeping in. Undoubtedly before a trip there will be some stress in your life. You and your family deserve to get a good night’s rest before you head out on the road.
Second, packing two days early gives you a chance to pick up last minute or forgotten items. If all your packing is done the night before and suddenly you realize you can’t find your camera’s battery charger….you may not have a lot of chances on the road to pick up needed supplies. Having an extra two days will allow for last minute trips to this store and that to round out your packing list. This will go a long way to reducing stress before the trip and give you peace of mind during your trip that all the bases are covered.
Thirdly, this tip goes hand in hand with Tip #6 – Leave Room. Getting packed early will make sure you’re not shoving in those last minute items that take up so much extra space and you’re still not sure if you’ll use them!
Lastly, having your bags packed and ready two days before helps with a reality check. Can you really carry that bag all over the airport and in and out of hotels? Is there just too much crammed in that carry-on? Will you be able to check just one bag if things are moved around? You won’t feel stuck with what you have if you are 48 hours from take off as compared to 4.
Give yourself and your family a bit of space on your next trip. Get packed early and start the trip a little more relaxed.