Packing List

With our departure dates approaching quickly, it's time to get serious about what to pack for our next travel adventure.  As we sit down to create our list of "must have's" for this trip to Croatia, we have the following clothing that I find work well for a two-week trip to this warm, casual climate. Be sure to scroll down to read the details below this basic list.
LIZ'S LIST
    4 pairs shorts
    2 pairs slacks
    6 tops   (buy more there)
    2 dresses 
    1 skirt
    2 sweater/jacket
    7 pr. Underwear
    2 swimsuits
    1 towel (lightweight turkish cotton)
    PJ’s
    2-3 hats
    2 pr sandals 
    1 pr sneakers/socks
    Personal meds & toiletries 
    Laundry supplies, converter, etc.
                    (see below for details)

MARK'S LIST
    4 pairs shorts
    2 pairs slacks
    1 dress shirt and tie
    4 casual shirts/polos
    2 T-shirts (buy more there)
    7 pr. Underwear
    1 walking/hiking shoes
     1-2 sneakers and/or…
     1 sandals or flip flops
      6 pair socks as needed            
      1 swimsuit
      1 towel (lightweight turkish cotton)
     PJ’s
     Hat(s)
     Personal meds & toiletries 
     (see below for details)

1. Electrical. 
The countries we visit along this route, including the yacht, all require European plugs.  They also use 220 Voltage.  So we will need both adaptors (plugs) and converters (to change voltage from 220V to 110V).  If you don't already have a converter and plan to use appliances other than laptop computers (which have their own converter) you will need to bring one with you.  The hotels and yacht we use all provide hair dryers, so that is not a problem. If you just use a computer, be sure to bring the plug adaptor.

2. Laundry
If we travel light, it's inevitable that laundry will be done.  Here are some of our plans:
  a. Laundry is done on the yacht.  We suggest bringing mesh laundry bags with your name on them to keep your clothes separate. 
   b. I have a portable travel clothesline to hang my swimsuit in our cabin and to wash underwear by hand in the sink.  I'll use sheets of Earth Breeze laundry detergent.  
​   d. Hotels along the way have laundry services.
   e. I swear by Tide Sticks - avoid trips to the laundry with this magical stick that erases so many drips and drops along the way. 

3. Luggage
With the intermittent airline nightmares there is more reason than ever before to travel lightly.  We highly suggest packing as light as possible.  One 20" carry-on suitcase per person is essential.  In addition to the 20" bag each traveler is allowed a second bag such as a backpack or bag.  This bag should contain your meds, travel documents and things you can't afford to lose. YOU CAN USUALLY GET BY WITH THESE TWO PIECES OF LUGGAGE FOR THE ENTIRE TRIP.


Also, be firm with the ticket counter airline agent that you are NOT checking a bag. At the gate, they may ask for volunteers to check hand luggage. You must ask if it will be waiting for you at the carousel or at the door of the airplane. If it is the carousel, it may get delayed. It enters into the same loop as if you checked it at the airline counter.


However, if you need a third bag, it would be really great to have each couple share the third bag to be checked and that bag should be no larger than 36". Remember, we are traveling in the heat, with a casual itinerary, so no dressy, formal wear is needed. .

4. Sunscreen
Here's a very important element in this summer season and with the time we'll be on the water, it's best to be prepared.


5.  Hats
Don't forget hats - several so the sun doesn't get the best of you and don't forget water proof hats.


6. Swimsuits
Notice the plural.  If you enjoy swimming, the days on the yacht will be more enjoyable if you have several suits so there's time to dry between use.


7. Church clothes
Don't go formal, but do plan to wear simple dress clothes when we attend services or have our own devotional on Sunday. Men need a shirt and tie for Sunday and women a skirt or dress, but keep it simple and travel will be much easier with less.


8. Water shoes/sandals
Many of the beaches are rocky, so plan to wear sturdy sandals or water shoes.  


9. Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important and while on the ship I plan to fill my personal bottle with water. On the plane I have found most stewardesses are willing to fill my bottle with cold water and this really helps me stay hydrated.  


10. Nasal spray
I use Xclear nasal spray or a simple saline solution as preventative care since viruses grow in the nose and travel exposes us to more viruses as well as the dry air of the airline cabin.


11. Basic medicine
Travel exposes us to unknown elements, so small quantities of basic meds for colds, allergies, diarrhea, sore throat, etc. should be included in your carry-on bag. We will be able to visit a pharmacy later if needed.


12. Zip lock plastic bags 
A strange but helpful item that somehow always comes in handy and takes no space to speak of.  I can't even tell you what I've used these for, but I always take a variety of sizes and find different ways to use them.  Of course the most obvious use is to carry any lotions, shampoos, toothpaste, etc. in your carry-on luggage. 


13. Personal Snacks
Mark and I like to have a bag of nuts and protein bars for those times when we are between stops and need a little nibble.  Especially on the plane or in the airport when we don't want to pay airport prices.  Some who have diabetes are wise to travel with a small store to keep their blood sugar in check. Of course there will be many opportunities along the route to refill your stores. The yacht keeps us well stocked with food, so don’t over pack.


14. Sweater or Jacket
Even though we are traveling in the warm time of the year, it is wise to have a sweater or jacket on the plane for when the air conditioning kicks on and for the cooler evenings or even on a bus ride.  One or two pair of long slacks would be wise as well so you can be prepared for changing temps.


15. Sunglasses
Obviously you’ll be in the sun and will need these.

16. Towel
We need a towel when we stop for a swim in Kotor in the Blue Grotto.  I suggest bringing a light Turkish cotton towel - they are great to have for a variety of reasons and take very little space in your suitcase. 

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