Don't forget travel insurance!

Packing for a summer vacation can be stressful, as it’s often hard to tell which personal items, clothing and toiletries you’ll need during your trip. To ensure you have enough room for all of your essential belongings, consider these helpful packing tips:

Prioritize breathable fabrics

The best way to stay cool during your summer vacation is to pack clothing items that are breathable, multipurpose, moisture wicking and easy to care for. While you may be tempted to bring along your favorite cotton tops, it’s a good idea to prioritize activewear made of fabrics like nylon, polyester and merino wool.

Forget the towel, bring a sarong

If you’re planning to spend a lot of time on the beach or by the pool, a towel may seem like an obvious addition to your packing list. But maximizing your carry-on space is all about versatility, which is why a small, lightweight sarong is a perfect alternative. Sarongs can serve a variety of functions during your trip, from drying off after a swim to keeping you warm during your nighttime adventures.

Utilize packing methodologies

Leaving room for all your travel essentials may seem overwhelming, but efficient organization can make a world of difference. Packing cubes can help you declutter your bag and free up space for your must-have accessories, as can rolling your clothes or using creative folding methods. It’s also important to take a minimalist approach to footwear, as more than two pairs can add unnecessary bulk.

Avoid the one-outfit-per-day mindset

The ability to mix and match your wardrobe is essential to packing light, as too many one-off outfits can take up valuable bag space. Selecting three complementary colors or monochrome clothing items will allow you to piece together multiple outfits that suit a wide range of occasions.

Wear your bulkiest items on the plane

Packing only lightweight clothes may not be an option for some summer travelers, especially if your destination has variable weather conditions and physically intense activities. Wearing your heaviest outfit and hiking boots on the plane can help you reduce bag weight and bulk without leaving your essential travel gear behind.

Pack Travel Insurance

Tight on space? The good news is packing a travel insurance policy from Travel Guard won’t take up extra room! Travel Guard’s travel insurance plans can provide coverage for medical expenses and emergency medical evacuations. Travel Guard’s assistance services can also go to work on your behalf re-booking flights and hotels, finding lost luggage and more. To find out more call 877.414.8506, visit www.travelguard.com, or ask your travel advisor/agent.

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, this stretch of coastline in southern Italy is considered one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Mediterranean. The Amalfi Coast is nestled between sheer mountain cliffs and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, and features over 120 hiking trails and footpaths, including the fabled Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). Travelers can explore the region on foot, or take a ride on the SS. 163 road, renowned for its hairpin bends and stunning views. The Amalfi Coast is also a short day trip away from several must-see destinations, from the ruins of Pompeii to the gardens of Ravello.

“My wife and I were enjoying a vacation to Barbados when she became ill. After a couple of trips to the clinic in Barbados we decided to cut our trip short. Travel Guard took care of everything they said they would in a very timely manner. I have used Travel Guard many times and I would highly recommend them to everyone!”

-  Gary Y