Gone are the days when you put everything into your backpack before a trip. Here are some 'smart choices'

Gone are the days when you put everything into your backpack before a trip. Here are some 'smart choices'

Gone are the days when you put everything into your backpack before a trip. Here are some 'smart choices'

Mystics and poets are the only people who pack whatever comes to sight and set out on journeys nowadays. People belonging to less exotic categories start racking their brains over travel preparations several months ahead. Even for those who make tall claims like 'I like travelling without much planning, it suits my style' etc are sure to run into rough weather if they do not plan when it comes to packing. Travel lovers worry about what not to take along rather than what to take. The common man least likes the idea of regretting over not taking something after having set out on the journey and travelled far from home. The sale of travel accessories is booming today for the same reason. **Packing cube** This can be used to compartmentalize various materials inside the luggage, e.g., shirts in one, underwear in another, etc. One can avoid rummaging the entire luggage to locate a sock. Plus nothing will be lost. **Compression sack** What makes it a favorite is the facility to compress a lot of materials into a limited space. On the flip side the clothes will get a bit crumpled. **Toiletry bottle** Big bottles of shampoo and mouthwash eating up space can be avoided thus: Carry only the required quantities of shampoo or medicines in tiny bottles. Sets of bottles of different sizes are available. **Toiletry bag** This is a means of keeping shampoo, soap, tooth brush, comb and razor together without their getting mixed up with the other luggage. **Noise cancelling headphone** The very reason for your travel could be to relax a bit. Just as you are settling down to relax in a park or hotel will you be bombarded by loud cacophony. It will be pointless kicking up a row with the nuisance makers. Instead wear this headphone. Instant peace and quiet is guaranteed. **Eye mask** No more complaining that the light came in the way of your sleep. Wear an eye mask and sleep away to glory during journeys. **Portable power bank** It is not necessary that the place you land in has provision for phone charging. Keeping a portable power bank handy takes care of this need. **Folding water bottle** No need to set aside a lot of space for your water bottle. The bottle can be folded and stashed away when not in use.