If you get the chance to travel abroad, I highly recommend you take it with gusto. Of course, there is the practical issue of what to take with you on the trip. While you might be tempted to pack the kitchen sink, don't.
The number one rule to abide by is to know the place you are going. Not the destination, the climate. If you are going to Alaska, pack warm. If you are going to be hopping from island to island in Hawaii, your wardrobe should be a tad lighter.
If you are traveling to a destination that has rain, a raincoat is a definite must. That being said, there is little reason to pack anything heavy. Instead, try to go with the lightest material possible and, preferably, something dark.
For women, traveling abroad can be a bit of a shock. Simply put, women are treated differently in various cultures. Find out cultural standards before you go. Comply with them to avoid problems. If you are offended, simply don't go.
You have undoubtedly thought about how you will carry valuables such as cash and your passport. There are a variety of approaches, but don't wear a fanny pack. Fanny packs scream "steal me" to thieves.
If you don't wear it at home, you will not wear it on the road. Trust me on this. People often make the mistake of packing things they think they MIGHT wear. Don't. It is highly likely you will not wear it, so why carry it all over creation?
Safari vest are used frequently by travelers and for sale just about everywhere. Okay, they are pretty ugly, but they are definitely a good practical item. Make sure you get zippers on the pockets so nothing falls out and nobody picks any valuables from them.
You will rarely be doing your own laundry on the trip. In many parts of the world, laundry service comes with even the cheapest hotel. The quality of that service is usually good, but make sure to pack clothes that don't require specific care.
When it comes to shirts, I am a big fan of polo shirts for both men and women. Why? Well, they are as easy to wear as t-shirts, but slightly formal enough that you don't look like you are completely dirt bagging your way across whatever country you are in!
Traveling abroad is an absolute blast and I highly recommend you do it as much as possible. That being said, minimize what you pack for your trips. You can usually buy anything you forget at your destination, so don't sweat it.
About the Author
Aazdak Alisimo writes about travel for NomadJournals.com - makers of rugged travel journals that make great gifts for dad as well as other writing journals for fishing, camping, hiking, bird watching and much more.