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Packing List for the Traveling Woman

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Packing List for the Traveling Woman

by Lorry Patton

Here is a sample of what to take on an informal two week trip. Keep things color-coordinated. Four tops (two short sleeve tee-shirts and two long sleeve blouses) and four bottoms ( two long skirts and two pants-- one could be stretch jeans) will give you many looks. (Knits are easy to wash and dry, lightweight and wrinkle-free.) For exploring during the day, take a pair of good walking shoes and a light nylon all-weather jacket with a hood and lots of pockets.

Bring one cardigan for cooler nights and a money belt for your traveler checks, credit cards, tickets and passport. (Write you're credit card and passport numbers down and keep them in your toiletries bag.) Keep ready cash in a fanny pack. Bring one casual full-length black knit dress in case you decide to "dress up" and a pair of dressy flat sandals. You can wear the dress during the day with a tee-shirt for a two-piece casual look.

Sandals can double for slippers and a long tee-shirt can double for a nightgown. Leave all but wedding ring and cheap watch at home. Toiletries can consist of mascara and lipstick, moisturizer with sunscreen, moisturizing shampoo, comb, hairdryer (optional) nail-file, small scissors, tweezers, razor, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes, and towelettes.

Wash your panties, bra and socks nightly (squeeze out moisture in a towel before hanging to dry) and two pairs of each will suffice. If you're not a professional photographer, a couple of throw-away cameras will do.

Bring any medication you are taking (glasses, vitamins?) plus sunglasses, tums, lomotil, aspirin, bandaids, antibiotic creme, breath mints and pad and pencil to keep a daily journal.

Extras could be inexpensive pens to trade and personal business cards with your name and address in case you meet people you want to stay in touch with.