Packing "just in case"

Ask any experienced light traveler and they will tell you that packing items “just in case” is a big no-no. Take only what you really need and will actually use. Anything else can be gotten at your destination.

I adhere to this belief and it has worked well. With one exception—the day trip. 

Occasionally, I take a one day trip by air. These flights are usually under 90 minutes each way and I can leave early in the morning and return at night. However, since 9/11 and after a few cancellation scares due to weather, I have started to pack a “just in case” overnight kit. This includes a clean shirt, underwear, socks, medication and some basic non-liquid toiletries including laundry sheets should the delay stretch more than a day. The weight is minimal and there is no need to take a full sized carry-on. 

This way, should I get stranded, I’m not forced to wear the same clothes twice. 

Anyone else do this? 

(Frank II)

Comments

[Paula S]

I have no need to take day trips but I would do the same, it feels so much better if you hava a fresh top and underwear to change into and some toiletries to clean with.

My only 'just in case' for long trips is medical. I pack my back/stomach cinch corset, in case my back goes. And lately I've been bringing it work.....just in case!

[Jay]

Assuming I'm flying I bring shirt/socks/underwear and a small meds kit (fits in s small prescription bottle) with a couple of pills each advil, anti diarrhetic, antiacid, etc. I don't carry toiletries as you'll usually have hand soap for most cleaning needs. I always carry some cliff bars/water as you never know if you'll be stuck on Tarmac or arrive late and not get a chance to pick something up to eat.

[Brian]

It makes sense. My view for short trips is take what you need as long as it all fits in the carry on.

[Laurie]

Potentially heightened post 9/11 security measures is at the top of our "just in case" or "what if" packing. Prior to this event, we didn't worry about the construction of our carry on bags since, the liklihood of checking them was extremely low. Thus, our bags are slightly heavier & sturdier and the items within are more neatly compartmentalized for speedy rifling through by strangers. Liquids have been virtually banished, so as not to have one other seperate thing to keep track of during security checks. We were scheduled to be in the air the day after the Christmas underwear bomber. We were mentally prepared to check expensive Christmas gifts, along with soiled clothing and toss used up toiletries- if forced to only carry our identification, money, and airline tickets. Luckily, less draconian security measures were in place.

[chitowngambler]

On most of my trips I have everything with me in a Scottvest product or bag that fits under a seat so I am set. I did a lot of wilderness camping in my yute and you can be as rich as Midas but if you are separated from your bag you are as poor as a church mouse. Should I be separated from that bag I would want to have with me my valuables and meds but also a change of clothing, socks, underwear and a decent shirt. Folding toothbrush and my small deodorant stone, (the size of a shot glass from Whole Foods). No 3-1-1 liquids since toiletries are available at most hotels or in the store. I bring a recycled water bottle with me on the plane, filled after security and no loss if I have to pitch it. Protein bars would be good too. These days, a smart phone to rebook a flight or to get a hotel on line while the phone lines are busy with other stranded travelers is very handy.

I recall a post at about the time of the recent problems in Japan that asked if you were in such a disaster what would you want to have with you. In that event, some folding Platypus water bottles, a serious means to filter water and a week’s supply of protein powder.

[MattBH]

I don't do much packing just in case, but on days where I'm flying there and back in one go, I make sure to where quick drying underwear, undershirt and socks, so if I have to spend the night in a hotel, I can still have clean clothes touching my body the next day. I wear contacts, so I'll also usually bring my regular glasses with me just in case. But all other toiletries I would just buy where I'm stuck and most any Western hotel room has an iron to press a worn shirt and slacks fresh. In terms of electronics, I always have whatever chargers I need with me, so that's not an issue.

[Larry]

I'm with Paula S on the back corset. Other than that, I usually don't pack anything "just in case".

[CoCoYoYo]

I occasionally do an overnight stay in New England but pack as if I were staying for two nights. That generally means an extra top and undies, plus extra little items (Advil, Benadryl, Pepto and Lara bars). I also back a "just in case" bag if I'm heading out with friends locally. Just PJs, undies and basic toiletries in case I need to stay overnight last minute.