How to Pack for a South East Asian holiday...

Before you're on the plane to eventually drinking out of a coconut, as I'm doing in Bali in December 2009, you need to pack for your trip.

You either love or hate packing for a trip. Fastidious packers have a list and get themselves organised well in advance. Last minute packers run around throwing things into their suitcase that they might never end up wearing. Personally, I usually have a list of what to pack and pile it into my bag the night before a holiday.

Shorter trips can be just as hard to pack for as longer ones. You need to maximise use of your clothes and ensure that there's enough purchase space for your new buys. This can be a challenge on a budget airline on a 15kg limit! It's possible though, with some strategic outfit planning ahead of time.

Visiting a tropical Asian holiday destination presents different challenges. The weather is going to be hot, humid and sticky when you step off the plane. Your pashmina needs to be unwrapped even before you disembark the aircraft. You need light, summery clothing items and appropriate cover-ups.

In my suitcase, I'll be packing the following essential items for my trip to the Philippines:

1. A cardigan for the evenings

Preferably black! A black cardigan complements any outfit. Even a maxi dress. See #5.

2. Comfortable walking shoes

 

An obvious essential. My good old Converse shoes survived hours of walking the streets of Japan! They're slightly worn but will still be making this trip.


3. Across the shoulder sling bag

I was a green traveller when I did a Contiki Europe and realised most of the girls but had brought satchel style black bags. This bag style is practical and safe. It's easy to swap shoulder-sides if it gets heavy. You have easy access to your bag at all times. I've been using an Esprit bag but am in the market for a new one. Perhaps this one from Urban Outfitters...

4. More than one bikini

 

One for Monday, one for Tuesday, one for Wednesday...you get the idea. On the plus side swimsuits are light and are technically "underwear".

5. Dual wear dresses

You need a dress that translates seamlessly from beach to bar. Maxi dresses and sundresses are great options.

6 more sleeps to go!