You know the feeling: vacation is just around the corner. You’re really looking forward to it, but you still have to ‘just pack’. You think: “What am I taking with me on my trip?!” As space advisors, we naturally know how to deal with small spaces and are therefore happy to help you with the ultimate packing list so that you always leave with all the necessities, and everything still fits in your suitcase too!

The packing list for your flying holiday

When you travel by plane, you basically have to take the least with you. Usually, you stay in a hotel or apartment and don’t have to bring tents and camping gear. The only thing you have to think about are the items you personally need. Below is an important list:

The packing list for your car vacation

When you go on vacation by car, extra preparations come into play to make your journey run as smoothly as possible. We have listed them for you!

Check the car itself

Before leaving by car, it is wise to first check the car itself so you are sure you can hit the road safely. Think about:

• Checking the fluids: engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. If these fluids are not up to standard, you might face unpleasant surprises on the way to your vacation. If, despite your careful preparation, a red light for one of the fluids does come on along the way, stop immediately and call roadside assistance.
• Checking the tread depth of your tires: There is a legal minimum of 1.6 millimeters of tread depth across the entire tire, but for your own safety, it is better to replace your tires earlier. The rule of thumb for this is to replace them at less than 2 millimeters for summer tires and less than 4 millimeters for winter tires.
• Check your tire pressure: Tires that are not at the right pressure cause higher fuel consumption, poorer road holding, and a (much) longer braking distance.
• Check the lighting: Seeing and being seen is essential for a safe ride. Besides your ‘normal lighting’ and turn signals, don’t forget the brake lights, fog light, and your high beams.

An ‘I’m going on a trip’ checklist for the items in the car

Next, there are some things you must have with you because they are mandatory or very handy if something goes wrong. Don’t forget to check your car insurance beforehand so you aren’t faced with surprises!

The packing list for your caravan/camper/camping vacation

Specifically for your caravan/camper/camping vacation, there are additional checks and necessary items. In terms of checks, the same checks apply to the caravan/camper as to the car regarding tread depth, tire pressure, and lighting. Except that your caravan probably doesn’t have engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid.

A vacation list for the items in your caravan/camper and for your camping vacation

The items you must take with you when you leave with a caravan/camper/tent:

Plan your route and driving times on time

Planning your route is also something you definitely want to do in advance. Take into account, for example, the day you leave. The last weekend of July and the first weekend of August are the busiest weekends to drive. This has to do with the school holidays. Keep that in mind before you leave!

The departure and arrival times are also important. Do you get tired from driving in the dark? Then try to drive in the daylight as much as possible. Do you have fewer problems with it? Then you can avoid a lot of crowds by driving at night.

Driving times are also a serious part of your car trip. It is highly recommended not to drive for more than 2 consecutive hours. Therefore, take a 15-minute break after every 2 hours so your concentration remains good and you prevent accidents. By the way, it’s nice for everyone to stretch their legs after a few hours! Go straight to the toilet, stock up on some snacks, and everyone is ready to go again.

Storing your items smartly at home

You are now completely ready to pack your belongings in a structured way for your vacation, but how smart are you upon your return? Many items you take with you are actually only used for your vacation. Consider, for example, the (awning) tent, airbed(s), and towing mirrors. These actually take up unnecessary space at home.
Be smart! And make use of flexible storage space from ALLSAFE Mini Opslag. ALLSAFE functions as your external attic or shed, as it were. This way, your belongings are stored safely and conditioned, and you have extra space in your home!

Enjoy your well-deserved vacation

With both the ultimate packing list(s) and a smart idea for storing your belongings when you return, you can go on vacation with peace of mind. Enjoy!

Even more tips on how to have a great vacation? Read on and use the practical tips & tricks from our blogs: