The atmosphere of returning to one's hometown is getting closer. Homecoming is a joyful moment eagerly awaited. You will reunite with family and friends in your birthplace.
However, long journeys can be exhausting if not well-prepared. To ensure a smooth and comfortable trip, bringing the right travel essentials is the key.
From essential items to additional accessories that enhance your travel experience, here are seven types of homecoming travel essentials you need to prepare!
Must-bring items for a smooth homecoming trip
A safe and peaceful journey is a result of your preparedness before setting off to your hometown. There is a list of highly recommended items to bring for your trip. Let’s check them out!
1. Identity documents and e-toll card
Identification documents should not be left behind. These documents play a crucial role, especially in unexpected situations.
To facilitate your journey, bring some essential documents as listed below.
Identity card
Your Identity Card (KTP) and Driver’s License (SIM) are the main documents that must always be carried. These serve as official identification and may be required at security checkpoints or during check-in at accommodations.
Vehicle registration and driver’s license
If you are travelling by private vehicle, make sure to bring your Vehicle Registration Certificate (STNK) and Driver’s License (SIM). These documents serve as proof of vehicle legality and driving authorization, which are mandatory for road inspections.
Electronic toll card (e-toll)
Check your bag to ensure your payment card is ready. If the balance is insufficient, top it up immediately to ensure a smooth journey.
Travel tickets
Are you travelling by public transport? Keep your tickets in your bag and avoid taking them out unnecessarily. Make sure you have printed or saved your ticket digitally for easier access.
Cash
Although QRIS and card payments are available in some rest areas, some places still rely on cash transactions. Bring enough cash for your expenses.
Travel insurance
As a precaution in case of unforeseen circumstances, include travel insurance in your list of essentials. A secure journey brings peace of mind!
Photocopies of important documents
To be safe, make copies of your documents, such as your identity card, driver’s license, and travel tickets. If the originals get lost, these copies can be very helpful in reprocessing them.
2. Sleeping and comfort essentials
Long journeys like homecoming trips are certainly not as comfortable as daily activities at home. Moreover, some people are not used to travelling long distances.
From eating to resting, several activities might take place in your vehicle or chosen mode of transport.
Travelling home can be exhausting. However, all the fatigue will be worth it once you reunite with your beloved family.
To minimize discomfort during travel, a neck pillow, such as those from IKEA, is a great solution. This pillow helps maintain a comfortable neck position.
Enhance your sleep during the journey with a travel blanket. It is lightweight and easy to carry. For better rest, use an eye mask and earplugs.
When going home, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement.
Temperatures inside vehicles are often too cold due to air conditioning. Wear a jacket and socks to stay warm and comfortable.
Read also: Get to Know the Types of Sleeping Pillows and Their Functions for a Good Night's Sleep
3. Practical bags and storage organizers
Packing your belongings neatly and in an organized manner is a crucial step before going home. Choose travel essentials that can efficiently hold your items without the risk of losing anything, such as the following options.
Suitcase or backpack
Homecoming trips are often associated with suitcases or backpacks. Choose one that suits the duration and needs of your journey.
If the number of items you're bringing is quite large, a suitcase is a good option. However, if you want more flexibility, an ergonomic backpack can be an alternative for carrying some important documents.
Pouch or organizer
To keep small items tidy and easily accessible, use a pouch or organizer. You can use it to store important documents like identity cards and travel tickets, cosmetics and personal care items, medications, gadget chargers, or earphones.
This way, you won’t need to rummage through your entire bag just to find one small item.
Small sling bag
A small sling bag is very practical for carrying frequently used items during travel, such as your wallet, phone, and toll card.
With this bag, you can easily access essential items without opening your main suitcase or backpack. Additionally, a sling bag is safer as it stays within your reach at all times.
Ziplock bags
Ziplock bags can be a lifesaver during travel. Use them to store snacks and prevent liquid leaks in your bag. Choose sizes according to your needs for added convenience.
Laundry bag
Sometimes, you may want to change clothes during your trip. To keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones, bring a laundry bag, such as those from IKEA.
Besides maintaining cleanliness, a laundry bag also makes it easier to do laundry once you reach your destination.
4. Medicine kit or pouch
Homecoming trips often take a long time and come with challenges, from traffic congestion to unpredictable weather changes.
To stay healthy and prepared for any travel conditions, it is essential to bring personal medications in a dedicated medicine kit or pouch. Don’t forget to include masks, hand sanitizer, and tissues to maintain hygiene.
This way, you can quickly address minor health issues without the hassle of finding a pharmacy during your journey. Make sure you bring the necessary medications.
5. Eating and drinking essentials for travel
Hunger can strike at any time during a journey. To anticipate this, prepare meals from home that you can consume when the nearest rest area is still far away.
To keep food and drinks safe, use appropriate containers. A compartmentalized lunch box helps keep meals organized. Pair it with portable cutlery for easier eating.
For drink storage, you can use a reusable water bottle from IKEA. Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
Vehicle safety and readiness
