How to Pack for a 4 Day School Trip

Co-authored by Kirin Dejonckheere

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

Yeah! It's time for that school trip and you're excited. But before you get too excited, make sure you pack for that adventure well, or you may end up missing something. Here are some ideas on what to pack.

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Pack the right clothing: If you are not sure what the weather would be like for your trip, be prepared for the best and the worst weather. Or, you can just check the weather online or in your local newspaper.^{[1]
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- It's ideal to pack enough clothes to last the trip. Pack depending on the weather. It's typical to bring an extra pair of pants and an extra shirt.
- If you have one, bring your school shirt or trip shirt. It may not be a shirt, but at least be sure to bring the school required article.
- Appropriate nightwear. You probably won't fall asleep in uncomfortable clothing while on the trip, so try grabbing a pair of sleep shorts, pajama pants (fleece for colder nights), and a t-shirt.
- Sleeping bag - if you'll be camping out in tents.
- Towels for swimming, or for showers. If you're in a hotel, they usually supply towels.
- Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, shampoo, etc). Once again, hotels normally supply things like soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Check to make sure that you're allowed to bring hair straighteners/curlers/hairdryer if you plan on packing yours.
- Comfortable and warm clothing. It's up to you what you pack for this, but grab a sweatshirt just in case.
- Suitable footwear. Don't bring new shoes on the trip, unless you absolutely need to. Always bring a pair of gym shoes/sneakers if you know you'll be walking. Converse or other shoes similar to them are okay, but sometimes don't offer the support in your arches. It's not a good idea to wear heels or wedges. Also, bring a pair of flip-flops if you plan on swimming or using a public shower.
- Don't forget your undergarments. Bring two extra pairs of socks and three extra pairs of underwear/boxers. Girls may want an extra bra, and a sports bra too.
- It may be warm so, in addition -
  - Swimsuit (recommended trunk style swimsuits for boys and one-piece swimsuits for girls.)
  - Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc. Check to make sure that the clothes apply with the trip's dress code. If there is no dress code, some teachers or supervisors might say to pack things that won't embarrass them with your wearing them. Try to stick to your school dress code, or close to it. (This mainly is for girls, don't wear a bandeau only or shorts that just barely cover your butt. Some guys also can wear too short of shorts.)
  - Bug repellent - it's a good idea to bring a small bottle of bug spray in you're doing night activities, near water, etc.
  - Sunscreen to protect from sunburns. Bring along a pair of sunglasses- a pair that has UV protection, and tinted sunglasses are a better preference. Also, don't forget a baseball/snapback hat to shade your face. Don’t forget a water bottle.
- It can be cold, so pop in an extra pair of pants or sweatpants. If it's really cold, don't forget a hat and gloves!
- Flashlights with spare unused batteries because you might need a flashlight for at night. If you are camping, flashlights that require to be shaken to project the light work well.
- Insulated insoles (to put an additional set in your shoes if you get cold feet), or take a pair out of some old shoes.
- Extra things to suit the weather. Bring a handheld battery-operated fan if it's supposed to be warm. It's always a good idea to bring a windbreaker jacket if it's somewhat windy where you're going. Also, don't forget to bring a foldable umbrella to fit in your bag in case it rains.
You will always need toiletries so make sure you have shampoo, conditioner, soap, shower gel, sponge, toothbrush, toothpaste, brush, and comb. Some people will need period products, so pack a few even if you're not on it or haven't gotten it.^{[2]
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You may get bored on the journey there so here are some ideas: DS, PSP, MP3 player or even a book.^{[3]
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If it is in a different language/country you'll be going to, practice and write down some helpful phrases. For example, Aidez-moi s'il vous plait? means Could you help me? Or Où sont les toilettes? means Where are the restrooms?^{[4]
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On the train in Japan, its considered rude to be on the phone ; In France if you say something to your friend in French, joking about your mum (saying for example Ta mère...) is considered very offensive.^{[5]
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Where do you put all of your stuff?

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Most buses and planes allow for one carry on bag and one larger piece of luggage to be stowed in another compartment. Check with the teacher if you're not sure how much room you have. Once you arrive, you can unpack your things in your room, leaving enough space for your roommates.

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How long befog my 3.5 day school trip should I pack my bags? It's two weeks away right now.

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A lot of people pack the night before, but it is probably best to pack two or three days before so that you can make sure you don't forget anything. Between now and then you can make a list of what you need to pack so that it goes smoothly.

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How do I make sure that my valuables don't get taken without carrying them on me all the time?

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Give them to a friend/teacher/caretaker, or leave them with the front desk if you're staying in a hotel. Ideally, you should just avoid bringing anything valuable.

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If you're going to a colder place, especially with snow, bring a hand cream (preferably in a tube) and a face moisturizer. These items can keep your skin feeling hydrated, and they can even be shared with friends.
Always keep essentials in your carry bag for easy access when your suitcase is out of reach.

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